Sponges
Sponges (Porifera)
Sponges (Porifera) are a group of simple aquatic animals that are characterized by their porous bodies. They are one of the most primitive forms of multicellular life, with a lineage that dates back to the Precambrian era.
Pronunciation
- UK: /ˈspʌndʒ/
- US: /ˈspʌndʒ/
Etymology
The term "sponge" comes from the Old English spunge, which is derived from the Latin spongia, meaning "sponge". The scientific name Porifera is derived from the Latin words porus (pore) and ferre (to bear), referring to the many pores found in the body of a sponge.
Description
Sponges are sessile organisms, meaning they are fixed in one place and do not move. They have a simple body structure, lacking true tissues and organs. Instead, they are composed of a loose aggregation of cells, with a network of tiny canals and chambers that facilitate the flow of water and nutrients.
Classification
Sponges belong to the phylum Porifera, which is divided into three main classes: Calcarea, Demospongiae, and Hexactinellida. Each class is distinguished by the type of spicules (skeletal elements) present in the sponge body.
Related Terms
- Spicule: A small, sharp-pointed structure that provides structural support to the sponge body.
- Osculum: The large opening at the top of the sponge through which water is expelled.
- Choanocyte: A type of cell found in sponges that is responsible for generating water currents and capturing food particles.
- Sessile: Referring to organisms that are fixed in one place and do not move.
See Also
- Cnidaria: Another group of simple aquatic animals, which includes jellyfish and corals.
- Metazoa: The group of all multicellular animals, which includes sponges.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sponges
- Wikipedia's article - Sponges
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