PORIFERA CROSSWORD

5. Lack of symmetry in body structure, a characteristic of many sponge species.
9. Outer layer of cells covering the surface of the sponge.
13. Mobile cells in sponges responsible for transporting nutrients, forming skeletal elements, and other functions.
15. Gelatinous matrix within the sponge that contains amoebocytes and skeletal elements.
16. Pores in the sponge body through which water enters for filtration.
18. Attached or fixed in one place; sponges are often sessile organisms.
20. Central cavity in sponges where water is circulated for filter feeding.

1. A close and often mutually beneficial relationship between different species; some sponges engage in symbiotic relationships.
2. The process by which cells engulf and digest solid particles, seen in sponge cells during feeding.
3. Small, needle-like structures made of calcium carbonate or silica that provide structural support in some sponge species.
4. Protein fibers in the sponge's extracellular matrix that contribute to its structural integrity.
6. Large opening at the top of the sponge through which water exits after filtration.
7. The method by which sponges extract food particles from water using specialized cells.
8. The phylum of simple multicellular organisms commonly known as sponges.
10. Channels in the sponge body that direct water to the spongocoel for filtration.
11. Associated with the bottom of a body of water; many sponges are benthic organisms.
12. Collar cells in sponges that create water currents and capture food particles.
14. Resistant reproductive structures in some sponge species, capable of surviving harsh conditions.
17. Reproduction without the involvement of gametes, common in sponges through budding or fragmentation.
19. The ability of sponges to regrow from fragments or even individual cells