Ochridaspongia rotunda is freshwater sponge endemic to Lake Ohrid. This sponge is found mostly at depths of 30–50 m and water temperatures of 6–8 °C. Its circular shape indicates the animal lives under conditions of relatively calm water.
Following comparative tests with positive controls of its extracts against 8 bacterial and 8 fungal strains, Ohridaspongia rotunda has been described as a potential "gold mine of new antimicrobial substances with significant and broad-range activity".[2] Current research is investigating its acetone extracts for application in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, for which it has demonstrated promising inhibitory activity.[3] These may originate with symbiotic bacteria hosted by the sponge and further research is required.[3]
Ochridaspongia rotunda is freshwater sponge endemic to Lake Ohrid. This sponge is found mostly at depths of 30–50 m and water temperatures of 6–8 °C. Its circular shape indicates the animal lives under conditions of relatively calm water.
