Rare sea sponge finally named
2 minute read
A unique purple sea sponge, discovered over a decade ago off the coast of Norfolk, has finally been named thanks to a 9-year-old school girl called Sylvie.
The completely new species of sponge was first discovered 10 years ago by Seasearch divers living in a special conservation zone in the North Norfolk chalk beds. But had remained nameless until the Norfolk school girl’s suggestion was chosen.
9-year-old Sylvie, who named the new sea sponge
Children were invited to name the purple creature as part of our Agents of Change project, which aims to connect people with their local seas.
From homeschooling students to entire classes, coming up with a name for the new sponge was a great way to get Norfolk kids involved in their local Marine Conservation Zone. Among the brilliant suggestions were Norfolk Purplish Plum and Purple Stone Sticker.
Jenny Lumb, a teacher at The Coastal Federation and panel expert said: “Naming the purple sponge has been a fun way for children to find out about the fascinating life hidden beneath the waves. It’s amazing to be given the chance to name a species that scientists and divers will use for years to come!
Parpal Dumplin'
The panel of experts deciding on the name included: Catherine Leigh, Education Adviser at Norfolk Coast Partnership, Annabel Hill, Senior Education Officer at Norfolk Wildlife Trust, Jenny Lumb, Teacher at The Coastal Federation, Nick Acheson, President at Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists Society and Claire Goodwin, Research Scientist at Huntsman Marine Science Centre and internationally renowned sponge specialist. At the meeting, the panel was supported by Seasearch East Coordinator, Dawn Watson, who recognised this sponge as special over a decade ago.