It takes the form of a large leathery slender flap and is found in the Caribbean area at depths down to 100 metres (330 ft).

The elephant ear sponge consists of a large thin flap of spongy material attached edgewise to the substrate by a short peduncle or stem about 4 centimetres (1.6 in) in diameter.

These spicules are classified as acanthostyles and consist of curved rods, with one end pointed and with whorls of spines on the shaft.

The colour of this sponge is yellowish-brown, fawn or dark brown, sometimes with pale edges and it is said to resemble a piece of tanned cow-hide.

[4] Sponges are unable to defend themselves physically from predators but many have developed chemicals that make them distasteful to fish.