The genes and transcripts of 16S rRNA were amplified from seawater, S. carteri, and X. testudinaria DNA (originating the following datasets: WTD1-WTD3, ASD1-ASD3, and AXD1-AXD3 respectively) and cDNA (originating the following datasets: WTR1-WTR3, ASR1-ASR3, and AXR1-AXR3 respectively). Purified amplicons were pooled equally and sequenced on a Roche 454 GS FLX Titanium platform. Sponge samples from the species Stylissa carteri and Xestospongia testudinaria were collected. Seawater samples were collected during the same dive. Sample location is: Fsar reef (22°23’N 39°03’E) at the coast of Thuwal, Saudi Arabia. Depth was at 8.5-12 meters.