Calcinea

The term "Calcinea" refers to a subclass within the class Calcarea, which are a type of calcareous sponge. These sponges are characterized by skeletons made entirely of calcium carbonate spicules. They are typically found in shallow, temperate waters and are usually small, rarely exceeding 15 cm.12

Calcinea sponges have a specific larval form called a parenchymella, which is solid and compact. Their spicules are often three-rayed, with one ray being longer than the others. While most sponges are found in marine environments, some species within the Calcarea class can be found in deeper waters.34