Hi Paul
Following your most valuable informations, I proceeded to collect the local sponge as mentioned. In fact we have to species in our cost that go by the scientific names of Hymeniacidon sanguinea and Halichondria panicea.
I presented them in small bits to the Moorish idol and it showed some interest giving it small bites. Never the less they were shy bites as it was still adjusting to the environment. So far it accepts well red algae from ocean nutrition and now it disputes them from the other tank mates. The idol occupies a central position in the tank from the very beginning and does nor fear or is intimidated by the other tank mates. In fact he is one of the very last if ever, to leave the premises for shelter at the back of the tank, so it behaves confidently.
I will carry on experimenting and let you know about the results.
I attach some photographs of both my tank two days ago and of the rocky beach were I collect seaweed, shrimps and the sponges as well as photographs of the sponge it self as I found it and prior collecting it and the facilities of the Marine Investigation Institute and public aquarium next to this beach (ELA â€"œ Estação Litoral da Aguda).
Aguda village is located some 15 km south to Porto city in Vila Nova de Gaia city.
I opened a topic similar to this one but starting with my experience in a Portuguese forum and it has stirred the interest and attention of many marine enthusiasts, reason for which and to better explain these enthusiasts about the sponge you found, I ask if you kindly grant me permission to show a copy of your sponge photographs stating obviously your ownership and source of it.
Another information Issued from Paul West, the Managing Director of Tropical Marine Centre in Chorleywood UK north of London city, states that Moorish Idols coming from Hawaii are less prone to present feeding problems and have a success rate of 90%, wile others coming from Indonesia, South Africa, etc, were this species is represented, present many adaptation problems and high failure rates.
Kind regards
Pedro Nuno
Sorry for the pictures quality but i'm not used with 50 KB limits.