black sponge infestation

[Dr Elizabeth Wood]

Dear coral listers,

I am hoping to get in touch with reef workers who have had 'a problem'
with an invasive black encrusting sponge in the Indo-Pacific (possibly
Terpios?).  Several reefs in the Semporna area off the east coast of Sabah
(Malaysia)  are severely affected by this sponge and an investigation is
underway to look at the origins of the infestation, its rate of spread,
and likely long-term impact. It would be useful to exchange information
and compare notes with others who have encountered this phenomenon.

Look forward to hearing from you,

Thanks,
Liz Wood

Dr Elizabeth Wood
Semporna Islands Project.
Email: ewood at globalnet.co.uk