Phylum PoriferaBy: Joseph Chi and Taha Ali

Number of germ layersIt has one central cavity called the

spongocoel. However, it has no tissues/germ layers

SymmetryAsymmetrical, meaning the body has no

symmetry because sponges are not always even.

CeolumPhyla Porifera are Aceolomates which are

characterized by having solid bodies.

Digestive tractPhylum Porifera (sponges) do not have a

digestive system because they have no mouth or anus, rather digestion occurs within the sponge’s which is called intracellular digestion.

Cephalization• Cephalization is the concentration of nerves at the

anterior end of the body, which forms a head and a brain.

• Porifera have no cephalization.

SegmentationPorifera are not divided into repeated

segments.

Skeleton & Appendagesnone, the structures called spicules provide

support inside the sponge, also has no appendages.

Circulatory system and respiratory systemNone, however the Porifera (sponge) diffuses

the oxygen in the water into its cells as it moves through the body.

Porifera have no specific circulatory system or respiratory system.

They have a water flow system that supports these functions.

ReproductionCan be sexual or asexualSponges are hermaphroditic -produce eggs

(ova) and spermproduce ova and sperm at different times of

the year.Eggs and sperm are produced by the

amoebocytes (Mobile cells) .

HabitatLive in marine and freshwater, usually in

shallow water, and is sensitive to pollution.