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Abstract

Sponges assume a great variety of forms, some are
cylindrical and cup-shaped, others are flattened, spherical,
and finger shaped, varying in size from small specks to
gigantic dimensions, the latter exemplified in the so-called
"Neptune's Cup," (Thalassema neptuni) a specimen of which
is in the Museum of the Society. Some of the sponges
display a great variety of rich colours, from bright scarlet
and mauve, to pale yellow and rose, but the beautiful and
delicate tints change when exposed to the air to a dull
brownish hue. Sponges are formed of a soft glairy substance
termed sarcode, which envelopes a skeleton composed of
silicious, calcareous, or horny material. The first exemplified
by the Euplectella, Hyalonema, Holienia, Rossella,&c.;
&c.;
the second by the genus Grantia, and the last by the common
sponge (Spongia communis) forming an elastic substance
extensively employed for domestic purposes.

Item Type:	Article
Authors/Creators:	Bennett, George
Keywords:	Royal Society of Tasmania, Van Diemens Land, VDL, Hobart Town, natural sciences, proceedings, records
Journal or Publication Title:	Papers & Proceedings and Report of the Royal Society of Tasmania
Collections:	Royal Society Collection > Papers & Proceedings of the Royal Society of Tasmania
Additional Information:	In 1843 the Horticultural and Botanical Society of Van Diemen's Land was founded and became the Royal Society of Van Diemen's Land for Horticulture, Botany, and the Advancement of Science in 1844. In 1855 its name changed to Royal Society of Tasmania for Horticulture, Botany, and the Advancement of Science. In 1911 the name was shortened to Royal Society of Tasmania.
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