Sponges are filter feeders that sift microscopic food particles from the water. Sponges rely on the movement of water through their bodies to carry out body functions. As water moves through the body cavity, oxygen dissolved in the water diffuses into the surrounding cells. Carbon dioxide and other wastes, such as ammonia, diffuse into the water and are carried away. Sponges protect themselves by producing toxins that make them unpalatable or poisonous to potential predators.
Sponges are classified as animals because they are multicellular, heterotrophic, have no cell walls, and contain a few specialized cells. The movement of water through the sponge provides a simple mechanism for feeding, respiration, circulation, and excretion.
Ecology:
Sponges are important in aquatic ecology. They provide habitats for marine animals such as snails, sea stars, and shrimp. Usually sponges live attached to the sea floor, where they only receive low levels of filtered sunlight. Scientists recently found out how organisms within the sponge get enough light to carry out photosynthesis.
Sponges are classified as animals because they are multicellular, heterotrophic, have no cell walls, and contain a few specialized cells. The movement of water through the sponge provides a simple mechanism for feeding, respiration, circulation, and excretion.
Ecology:
Sponges are important in aquatic ecology. They provide habitats for marine animals such as snails, sea stars, and shrimp. Usually sponges live attached to the sea floor, where they only receive low levels of filtered sunlight. Scientists recently found out how organisms within the sponge get enough light to carry out photosynthesis.