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Questions and Answers
What is the main function of archaeocytes in sponges?
What is the main function of archaeocytes in sponges?
Which cells are responsible for secreting spicules in sponges?
Which cells are responsible for secreting spicules in sponges?
What is the main function of spongocytes in sponges?
What is the main function of spongocytes in sponges?
What do totipotent cells refer to?
What do totipotent cells refer to?
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Which cells may arise through morphological modification of existing choanocytes?
Which cells may arise through morphological modification of existing choanocytes?
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What is the significance of spicules and fibers in sponges?
What is the significance of spicules and fibers in sponges?
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What is the role of gemmules in sponges?
What is the role of gemmules in sponges?
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How long can gemmules stay dormant and still hatch successfully?
How long can gemmules stay dormant and still hatch successfully?
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During unfavorable conditions, what happens to some freshwater and marine sponges instead of forming gemmules?
During unfavorable conditions, what happens to some freshwater and marine sponges instead of forming gemmules?
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What is the outer, epithelial-like layer of most sponges called?
What is the outer, epithelial-like layer of most sponges called?
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Which type of sponge canal system is the most complex and efficient?
Which type of sponge canal system is the most complex and efficient?
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What is the function of pinacocytes in sponges related to water flow?
What is the function of pinacocytes in sponges related to water flow?
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What is the term used to describe cells that can differentiate into cells from all three germ layers?
What is the term used to describe cells that can differentiate into cells from all three germ layers?
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What is the primary function of collencytes and lophocytes in cell differentiation?
What is the primary function of collencytes and lophocytes in cell differentiation?
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What are gemmules and what distinguishes them from other sponge structures?
What are gemmules and what distinguishes them from other sponge structures?
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During gemmule formation, what is the role of archaeocytes?
During gemmule formation, what is the role of archaeocytes?
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What is the function of the thick, protective covering secreted around clusters of archaeocytes during gemmule formation?
What is the function of the thick, protective covering secreted around clusters of archaeocytes during gemmule formation?
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Study Notes
Spongocyte Functions and Cell Types
- Archaeocytes play a critical role in digestion, nutrient transport, and the regeneration of sponges.
- Spicules are secreted by specialized cells known as sclerocytes in sponges.
- Spongocytes are responsible for producing collagen and fibers, which contribute to the sponge's structural framework.
- Totipotent cells can differentiate into any cell type, demonstrating versatility in cellular development.
Cell Transformations and Significance
- Choanocytes can morph into specialized cells like sperm, showing adaptability in reproductive functions.
- Spicules and fibers provide structural support and defense against predators, enhancing the sponge's resilience.
Gemmules and Dormancy
- Gemmules act as survival structures for sponges, allowing them to endure unfavorable conditions by remaining dormant.
- These dormant structures can remain viable for several years until environmental conditions improve, then hatch successfully.
- In adverse conditions, some freshwater and marine sponges may undergo asexual reproduction instead of forming gemmules, ensuring species survival.
Sponge Structure and Canal Systems
- The outer epithelial-like layer of most sponges is called the pinacoderm, providing protection and structure.
- Leuconoid is the most advanced and efficient type of sponge canal system, optimizing water flow through the sponge.
Cellular Roles and Functions
- Pinacocytes help regulate water flow by controlling the size of the pores or ostia, influencing the sponge's water intake.
- Cells that can differentiate into types from all three germ layers are termed pluripotent.
- Collencytes and lophocytes play a role in producing collagen and other structural proteins, crucial for the sponge's integrity.
Gemmules: Structure and Role
- Gemmules are encapsulated clusters of archaeocytes surrounded by a thick protective coating, enabling resilience against harsh conditions.
- During gemmule formation, archaeocytes aggregate and are encased in layers for protection, ensuring the survival of the sponge's genetic material.
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Description
Test your knowledge on archaeocytes, versatile amorphous amoeboid cells in sponges responsible for intracellular digestion, storing food, and potential role in reproduction and waste elimination. Learn about the support elements they secrete in the mesohyl layer.
