Porifera

6. Protein fibers in the sponge's extracellular matrix that contribute to its structural integrity.
7. The process by which cells engulf and digest solid particles, seen in sponge cells during
9. Spicules: Small, needle-like structures made of calcium carbonate or silica that provide
10. Central cavity in sponges where water is circulated for filter feeding.
11. Attached or fixed in one place; sponges are often sessile organisms.
12. Mobile cells in sponges responsible for transporting nutrients, forming skeletal
13. engage in symbiotic relationships.
15. Pores in the sponge body through which water enters for filtration.
17. Gelatinous matrix within the sponge that contains amoebocytes and skeletal elements.
19. Canals: Channels in the sponge body that direct water to the spongocoel for filtration.
20. and other functions.
21. Large opening at the top of the sponge through which water exits after filtration.
23. Reproduction: Reproduction without the involvement of gametes, common in sponges
24. Outer layer of cells covering the surface of the sponge.

1. The phylum of simple multicellular organisms commonly known as sponges.
2. Associated with the bottom of a body of water; many sponges are benthic organisms.
3. Feeding: The method by which sponges extract food particles from water using specialized cells.
4. Collar cells in sponges that create water currents and capture food particles.
5. budding or fragmentation.
8. The ability of sponges to regrow from fragments or even individual cells.
14. Resistant reproductive structures in some sponge species, capable of surviving harsh
16. A close and often mutually beneficial relationship between different species; some
18. support in some sponge species.
22. Lack of symmetry in body structure, a characteristic of many sponge species.