Porifera: The Sponges

Flashcards summarizing key vocabulary related to the study of sponges from the phylum Porifera.

Phylum Porifera

The group of simple multicellular animals known as sponges, which do not have true tissues.

Spicule

Tiny spikes of calcium carbonate that form the skeleton of calcareous sponges.

Incurrent Pores

Holes in sponges that take in water.

Excurrent Pore (Osculum)

The large hole at the top of the sponge where water exits.

Central Cavity (Spongocoel)

The hollow cavity inside a sponge, lined with collar cells.

Collar Cells (Choanocyte)

Cells that line the central cavity of sponges and are equipped with flagella to create water currents and aid in feeding.

Filter Feeder

An organism that filters small bits of food from water that is drawn into their body.

Class Calcarea

The class of sponges that have skeletons made up of calcium carbonate spicules and are usually small.

Class Hexactinellida

Glass sponges that have skeletons made from silicon dioxide, often found in deep tropical waters.

Class Demospongiae

The largest group of sponges that are known as 'people sponges' or 'bath sponges,' featuring elastic spongin fibers.

Metazoa

Multicellular animals that include sponges and other complex life forms.

True Tissues

Specialized groups of cells that work together; sponges do not possess true tissues.

Spongin

Elastic fibers that may form the skeleton of some types of sponges.

Amebocyte

A cell in sponges that acts like an amoeba and helps with digestion and nutrient distribution.

Flagellum

A whip-like structure that helps the collar cells move water.

Marine Habitats

Water environments like oceans where most sponge species are found.

Freshwater Habitats

Water environments like rivers and lakes where some sponge species can live.