In the 1970s, Vogel proposed a mechanism by which laminar flow over a tube could induce flow through the tube due to viscous entrainment or the Bernoulli effect. This hypothesis has been widely applied to both living systems and biogenic structures. Vogel first tested this hypothesis in sponges (Porifera), under the assumption that the canals were inert. A modern understanding of sponge morphology and physiology however, shows sponges possess a sophisticated sensory system, even in the canals. Glass sponges (Hexactinellida) are an ideal group with which to re-examine the hypothesis because individuals have large oscula and have a well-studied sensory system that can cause feeding current arrests. We used flow probes and oxygen sensors to test the hypothesis that Aphrocallistes vastus uses less oxygen (metabolic expenditure) to filter more water during higher ambient flow. We found that more water was filtered during periods of higher ambient current in only one of six individuals. However, all sponges arrested pumping independently of ambient currents, indicating control over pumping rate. We compared oxygen removal between low and high ambient flow during periods when sponges were pumping (high excurrent). Sponges removed on average 30% less oxygen when the ambient current was high. This suggests a mechanism by which the sponge senses increased ambient flow rates and reduces the cost of filtration, possibly by reducing resistance through canals. Our experiments imply that while sponges can take advantage of current-induced flow, flow through these animals is largely controlled by their complex physiology, and is thus sense-induced.