Story: Taranaki region

Sponges, Parininihi Marine Reserve

Sponges, Parininihi Marine Reserve

The 1800-hectare Parininihi Marine Reserve, off White Cliffs, was created in 2006. The reserve is based around an isolated offshore reef, Pariokariwa, and is noted for its rare and colourful sponges – like these bright orange Polymastia pepo – as well as being a nursery for many fish species.

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Private collection
Photograph by Ian Cooper

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How to cite this page:

Ron Lambert, 'Taranaki region - Changing the environment', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/25283/sponges-parininihi-marine-reserve (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Ron Lambert, updated 1 Aug 2015