Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of the water transport system in sponges?
What is true about the reproductive strategy of sponges?
How is digestion achieved in sponges?
What structure lines the spongocoel in sponges?
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Which feature of sponges contributes to their primitive multicellular organization?
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What type of skeleton do sponges possess?
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What is the structural feature that allows water to enter the body of sponges?
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What is the developmental characteristic of sponges?
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Which of the following statements is true regarding sponge reproduction?
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What type of cellular organization characterizes sponges?
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Which components provide structural support to a sponge's body?
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Study Notes
Overview of Phylum Porifera
- Commonly known as sponges, members of Phylum Porifera are primarily marine and exhibit asymmetry.
- Represent primitive multicellular organisms with a cellular level of organization.
Water Transport System
- Possess a unique canal system that facilitates water movement through the body.
- Water enters through minute openings called ostia, flows into a central cavity known as the spongocoel, and exits through the osculum.
- This water transport system aids in:
- Food gathering
- Respiratory exchange
- Waste removal
Cellular Structure and Digestion
- The internal surface of the spongocoel and canals is lined with choanocytes (collar cells).
- Digestion occurs intracellularly, meaning digestion takes place within the cells.
Support and Skeleton
- Sponges have a supportive skeleton made of spicules (microscopic structures) or spongin fibers.
Reproductive Characteristics
- Sponges are hermaphroditic, producing both eggs and sperm within the same individual.
- Reproduction occurs:
- Asexually by fragmentation (breaking apart and regeneration).
- Sexually through the formation of gametes, with internal fertilization.
- Development is indirect, involving a larval stage that is structurally different from the adult form.
Overview of Phylum Porifera
- Commonly known as sponges, members of Phylum Porifera are primarily marine and exhibit asymmetry.
- Represent primitive multicellular organisms with a cellular level of organization.
Water Transport System
- Possess a unique canal system that facilitates water movement through the body.
- Water enters through minute openings called ostia, flows into a central cavity known as the spongocoel, and exits through the osculum.
- This water transport system aids in:
- Food gathering
- Respiratory exchange
- Waste removal
Cellular Structure and Digestion
- The internal surface of the spongocoel and canals is lined with choanocytes (collar cells).
- Digestion occurs intracellularly, meaning digestion takes place within the cells.
Support and Skeleton
- Sponges have a supportive skeleton made of spicules (microscopic structures) or spongin fibers.
Reproductive Characteristics
- Sponges are hermaphroditic, producing both eggs and sperm within the same individual.
- Reproduction occurs:
- Asexually by fragmentation (breaking apart and regeneration).
- Sexually through the formation of gametes, with internal fertilization.
- Development is indirect, involving a larval stage that is structurally different from the adult form.
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Description
This quiz focuses on the characteristics and biological systems of Phylum Porifera, commonly known as sponges. It covers their unique water transport system, cellular structure, and reproductive characteristics. Test your knowledge on these primitive multicellular organisms and their essential functions.
