Researchers are mystified about how the sea sponge Euplectella aspergillum forms its skeleton, but know that it is the strongest glass you can imagine. The glass cages that are formed have at least seven levels of structural organization, many of which follow textbook principles of mechanical engineering. A lattice work frame is formed and is reinforced by diagonal beams (think of the Eiffel Tower). The places where beams intersect are reinforced with glass cement. The needle-like glass beams are 10 to 100 millionth of a meter in diameter.

 Sponges are an extremely ancient group of animals whose “footprints” have been found in the fossil record for more than half a billion years. The sponges live on the ocean floor at depths of 325 to 1000 feet, well beyond scuba diving depth. The glassy fibers that attach the sponge to the ocean floor are as thin as a human hair and are of interest to fiber optic researchers. Euplectella has optical properties superior to those produced by modern technology and are formed at low temperatures. If scientists can figure out how to duplicate the process they could make better, less brittle commercial fiber optics.

 The Euplectella skeleton lattice often houses a pair of mating shrimp that enter the chamber when very small. When they reproduce, their larvae migrate out to start their own lives. This symbiotic relationship has come to symbolize mariage in sime Pacific cultures and the exquisite sponge, also known as The Venus Flower Basket, is often given to couples as a wedding gift. They were also extremely popular in Victorian England and one could easily cost five guineas, equivalent to 500 pounds today.