This dataset supports the proposal of Vilesida ord. nov. (Porifera: Demospongiae), defined by molecular and chemotaxonomic evidence. Specimens from the Northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean show C30 sterols with an isopropyl group at C-24, unique among eukaryotes. The study reassigns Petromica and Axinyssa to the new order, reinstates Viles as type genus of Vilesidae fam. nov., and introduces Murus gen. nov. with three species: M. hirondellei comb. nov., M. profunda sp. nov., and M. sinenotis sp. nov. Combined morphological, molecular, and chemical data clarify sponge phylogeny and biomarkers.
Further funding:* TAXOMAB, Award No. BIO023