sponges (zoology)
HYDROSTATIC-SKELETON
A support structure that uses water pressure to keep the animals shape.
RADIAL-SYMMETRY
Animal can be divided up around a central rotational axis.
BILATERAL-SYMMETRY
Animal has mirror image right and left sides, and can be divided only along a central axis.
CEPHALIZATION
Having a centralized nervous system at the front of the body, like a head.
ASYMETRICAL
Irregular in shape.
ASCONOID
Simplest sponge body structure. Tube or vase shaped, with very few cell layers. Very small size due to limited surface area.
LEUCONOID
Sponge body type containing a network of chambers for the inlet and outlet of water. Allows them to grow larger and in different formations.
SYCONOID
Sponge with a body wall that is pocketed with choanocytes. The pockets are attached to ostia and increase the pumping capacity of the sponge, allowing it to grow larger.
CHOANOCYTES
collar cells. Beat their flagellum to draw in water.
SPONGIN
flexible protein fiber that makes up sponges.
MEDUSA
free floating bell shaped form of jellyfish.
NEMATOCYSTS
harpoon like stinging cells contained within the cnidocytes.
OSCULUM
larger opening through which water exits.
SESSILE
remaining in one spot for their whole life.
AMOEBOCYTES
sponge cells that absorb nutrients.
CNIDOCYTES
stinging cells.
BASAL-DISK
structure that forms a sticky substance and allows for attachment to an area.
SPICULE
tiny calcium or silica needles.
OSTIUM
tiny pores through which water enters.
POLYP
tube like, sessile form of a jellyfish.