Antarctic sponges host diverse and functionally relevant microbial communities that play central roles in the structure and resilience of polar benthic ecosystems. This review provides a focused analysis of the prokaryotic microbiomes associated with Antarctic sponges, with an emphasis on three ecologically significant species: Mycale (Oxymycale) acerata, Dendrilla antarctica, and Hymeniacidon torquata. Drawing from recent molecular studies, we examine the composition, predicted functional potential, and environmental responsiveness of these bacterial and archaeal communities. Comparative analyses with surrounding seawater and sediments reveal both overlaps and distinct host-specific microbial signatures, suggesting that sponge-associated microbiomes are shaped by selective pressures at the host and habitat levels. A conserved microbial core appears to coexist with more variable taxa influenced by host physiology and environmental gradients. We also discuss the impact of environmental stressors on microbiome structure and stability. Functional insights from metagenomic data highlight key microbial contributions to nutrient cycling, symbiotic lifestyles, secondary metabolite and vitamin production, quorum sensing, and the biodegradation of aromatic compounds. This review critically assesses current knowledge on Antarctic sponge-associated prokaryotic microbiomes, identifying recurrent taxonomic and functional patterns and evaluating evidence for core microbial functions across species and regions. We hypothesize that, despite taxonomic variability and geographical sampling bias, Antarctic sponge microbiomes share conserved functional traits shaped by host- and environment-driven selective pressures. Although foundational knowledge has expanded, particularly for shallow-water species, significant gaps persist-especially in underexplored habitats and in linking predicted functions to ecological dynamics. We conclude by outlining research priorities, including standardized protocols, broader spatial and temporal sampling, and multi-omics integration to better understand microbiome resilience under climate-driven change.
Giudice et al. (Mon,) studied this question.