Base Camp Antarctica, 22 February

In the harsh yet breathtaking landscape of Antarctica, a team of scientists has embarked on an ambitious project to uncover the secrets of one of the most fascinating and mysterious creatures in the ocean – the giant volcano sponge.

The Uncharted Giant

The Anoxycalyx joubini, also known as the giant volcano sponge, is a large white barrel-shaped animal that can grow up to 1 meter long. Biologists Jürgen Kluge and Dr. Erik Wurz are part of a team studying this unique species in its natural habitat.

“We don’t know even what they are feeding on, and how fast they are growing,” says Dr. Wurz. “But we do know that they are providing the structure for the community, and that’s why they are really important.”

Using an aluminum lander that can be set up over individual sponges, the team has been conducting detailed investigations of these animals in their natural habitat. The goal is to understand how these sponges interact with the environment.

The Science Behind the Sponges

The researchers are using a range of techniques to study the giant volcano sponge, including cameras, sensors, and methods to sample water both inside and outside the sponge. They are also conducting biopsies for viewing under an electron microscope to confirm the identity of the species.

“We want to know which bacteria they might be feeding on, how much oxygen they are respiring, how much water they are moving around, and the nutrients they are taking in and excreting,” says Dr. Wurz.

Coupled with 3D models of the sponges reconstructed from hundreds of images, the biopsy will help the team to calculate the biomass, or weight, of the sponges without having to lift them off the seabed floor. This is key to figuring out their growth rate, and how long they might live.

The Importance of Sponge Research

The giant volcano sponge plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the Antarctic ecosystem. It provides habitat for other species, and its pumping action helps to circulate nutrients throughout the ocean.

“Their pumping action is really important,” says Jürgen Kluge. “It’s like they are saying ‘come on, let’s move things around over here.'”

The research being conducted by Dr. Wurz and his team is crucial in understanding how these sponges interact with their environment, and how we can protect them.

A New Chapter for Sponge Research

The project marks a new chapter in the study of giant volcano sponges. With ongoing support from Antarctica New Zealand’s community engagement programme, the researchers are optimistic about the potential discoveries that will be made.

“We’re really excited about what we might find,” says Dr. Wurz. “We know there’s still so much to learn about these incredible creatures.”

Reporting on this episode was supported by Antarctica New Zealand’s community engagement programme. Sign up to the Our Changing World monthly newsletter for episode backstories, science analysis and more.