What is the sexual orientation of SpongeBob SquarePants?

The sexuality of Spongebob is not addressed in the series and the creators have said that they do not consider him gay, in fact, they consider him almost asexual, like a real sponge. This fits in with the fact that he has been depicted growing new body parts, as is appropriate for an asexual organism.

Claims that he is gay have mostly come from those who oppose equality for gays in US law and society.