1. Phylum – Porifera The Sponges
         
            
          
        
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3. Taxonomy
Kingdom – Animalia
Phylum – Porifera (pores)

4. Characteristics Simplest of all animals Most are marine
Saltwater sponges are brightly colored
Freshwater sponges are small and dull green color
Size – 2 meters to 2 cm

5. Characteristics Porifera means has pores Filter feeders on plankton
Osculum – large opening at the top where excess water leaves

6. Characteristics
Asymmetrical
Sessile as adults (attach to rocks)

7. Water Flow Through the Sponge
WATER OUT
Water Flow Through the Sponge
WATER IN
Osculum

8. Water Flow Through Sponge

11. Skeletal Structure of the Sponge
Skeleton made of network of protein fibers called Spongin
Spicules are hard spear or star-shaped structures
Spicules made of CaCO3 (limestone) or silica (glass)

12. Sponge Skeletons
Silica Spicules
Limestone Spicules
SPONGIN

13. Sponge Skeletons
VENUS FLOWER BASKET
SPICULES

14. Sponge Reproduction
Sponges can regenerate (regrow) lost body parts through mitotic cell division (asexual)
Sponges also reproduce asexually by budding

15. Sponge releasing eggs & sperm
Sponge Reproduction
Sponges are hermaphrodites (produce both eggs & sperm)
Sponges reproduce Sexually by releasing eggs & sperm into the water from the Osculum
Cross-fertilize each other’s eggs
Sponge releasing eggs & sperm

16. Surviving Harsh Conditions
Gemmules are specialized buds made to survive harsh weather (hot or cold)
Contain food, amebocytes, and a protective covering of spicules
Released when a sponge dies
Resist dessication (drying out)
Become adult sponge conditions become favorable

17. Branching Tube Sponge

18. Stove Pipe Sponge

19. Vase Sponges

20. Barrel Sponges

21. Ball Sponges

22. Rope Sponges