Ms. Arness Name: TEACHER NOTES Block: Biology 11 Date:

PHYLUM PORIFERA

This phylum represents the first experiment in multi-cellularity for animals

There are specialized cells, but they do not work cooperatively together – they’re not tissues

Simplest and most primitive animals

Have changed little since they evolved

Have radial symmetry

Are sessile

Sponges have spicules between their cell layers for structural support

Many sponges also contain a collagen material called spongin

This is what makes bath sponges from certain species

Nutrition: Filter feeding

Reproduction:

Asexual: budding via gemmules

Sexual: internal fertilization (larva, sperm and egg)

Respiration, circulation and excretion: water

Water Flow Animation!

Go to website: http://www.biology.ualberta.ca/courses.hp/zool250/animations/Porifera.swf