Question

In lab this week we examined an introduction to the invertebrates. Based on what you learned, please describe the lifestyle of SPONGES. Components and characteristics that you should address would include:

1. Body symmetry
2. Types of specialized cells seen in the sponges
3. Mode of nutrition and HOW they feed
4. Reproduction
5. Life span
6. Habitat
7. Specializations that are dedicated to this group

Answer 1

body symmetry- they can have radial symmetry, they can be asymmetric and the body can be cylindrical.

Types of specialized cells- they have choanocytes. These cells allow the movement of water in the body.

Mode of nutrition- Sponges feeds on minute organisms and small organic particles that enter the body through water current and are ingested by the choanocytes.

Reproduction-Asexual reproduction takes place by external or internal budding.
Sexual reproduction involves internal fertilization.
The larval stage of calcareous sponges is amphibalstula while that of demosponge is rhagon larva.

Life span- They have the power of regeneration so they can live for long. Some usually live for a few years. However, some tropical species can survive for more than 200 years.

Habitat- They are mostly marine. Some can also be a freshwater sponge.

Specialization- they can have pores called Ostia. They have a skeleton made up of calcium carbonate. They have a skeleton made up of spongin fibers.