The main characteristics of Porifera phylum

Porifera, also known as sponges, are a phylum of aquatic animals that are known for their simple body structure and lack of true tissues and organs. Here are some Characteristics of poriferans

Body structure: The body of a sponge(animal of Porifera) is made up of a porous and perforated outer layer called the pinacoderm and an inner layer of cells called choanoderm. The space between these layers is filled with a jelly-like substance called mesohyl.

Symmetry: poriferans exhibit asymmetry or radial symmetry, meaning they lack a distinct front or back and can be divided into similar parts around a central axis.

Feeding: Animals of Porifera are filter feeders, meaning they obtain food by filtering water through their porous bodies and extracting small particles, such as bacteria and plankton.

Reproduction: Sponges can reproduce both sexually and asexually. In sexual reproduction, male and female gametes are released into the water and fertilization occurs externally. In asexual reproduction, sponges can produce buds that detach and form new individuals.

Skeleton: Most sponges have a skeleton made up of spicules, which are mineral structures made of calcium carbonate or silica. Some sponges also have a skeleton made up of fibers of a protein called spongin.

Mobility: poriferans are sessile, meaning they are attached to a substrate and do not move around freely.

Habitat: Sponges are found in marine and freshwater environments worldwide, from shallow waters to the deep sea.