Description: Synonym: Tetilla cranium. This species is a spherical sponge, typically the size of a golf ball. It is a frequent species in deep water but rarely found in depths which divers can reach. The surface is conulose and there is usually a group of osculae at the top which are flush with the surface.

Habitat: In relatively shallow water found on limestone platforms off exposed coasts. Becomes more common below 50 m depth.

Distribution: Recent records from depths of 30-45 m are from two areas on the west coast of Ireland, the Aran Islands and Kerry Head shoals.

Similar Species: Tethya citrina is similar in appearance but has a much rougher surface. It is common.

Key Identification Features:

• Orange spherical sponge with conulose surface

iNaturalist: Craniella cranium at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.

GBIF data for Craniella cranium

WoRMS: Craniella cranium at World Register of Marine Species. Accepted name: Craniella cranium (Müller, 1776). AphiaID: 171330.

Classification: Biota; Animalia; Porifera; Demospongiae; Heteroscleromorpha; Tetractinellida; Spirophorina; Tetillidae; Craniella