Sponges play a vital role in Florida’s coastal hard-bottom habitats, offering structural complexity crucial for diverse marine life. Despite their ecological significance, sponge populations face threats from factors like eutrophication and disease. This proposal aims to identify locations and species for restoring or enhancing sponge-dominated habitats offshore of Tarpon Springs, Florida. By surveying sponge populations and testing aquaculture methods, we seek to bolster sponge communities and their associated ecological and economic benefits. Leveraging funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the Florida Sea Grant Program, this project also prioritizes student involvement, aiming for diversity and inclusion within our research efforts. Through this interdisciplinary approach, we aim to foster resilient marine ecosystems and support local fishing communities in the Tarpon Springs region.
