The barrel sponge is one of the largest and most recognizable sponges found in Myanmar’s coral reef ecosystems. Shaped like a giant, upright barrel or vase, this sponge can grow to over a meter in height and live for hundreds of years. Its thick, sturdy body is usually brown, reddish, or purple in color, and its wide opening at the top allows water to flow through continuously, filtering out tiny food particles like plankton.
Barrel sponges play an important role in the health of coral reefs. They filter thousands of liters of water each day, helping to keep the reef environment clean and balanced. Their large, porous surfaces also provide shelter for a variety of reef creatures, such as shrimp, crabs, small fish, and even juvenile lobsters. Because of their size and long lifespan, barrel sponges are sometimes called the “redwoods of the reef.”
In Myanmar, barrel sponges can be seen in the deeper parts of reefs, especially around the Myeik Archipelago, often growing alongside corals and soft corals. Although they are not true corals, barrel sponges are equally vital to the ecosystem. However, like corals, they are sensitive to pollution, sedimentation, and climate change, which can affect their growth and health.
Featuring barrel sponges in the Myanmar Coral Museum helps raise awareness of these fascinating and ancient organisms. They remind us that not all reef life is made of coral—and that sponges, too, are essential to the vibrant underwater world.
