characteristics of porifera

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1. Asymmetry: Porifera lack any kind of symmetry and do not have a defined body shape.

2. Aquatic: Porifera are aquatic animals that live in marine and freshwater environments.

3. Filter feeders: Porifera are filter feeders and obtain their food by filtering water that flows through their porous bodies.

4. Lack true tissues and organs: Porifera do not have true tissues and organs, instead they have specialized cells that perform specific functions.

5. Skeletal support: Porifera have a unique skeletal support system consisting of structures called spicules and spongin fibers.

6. Regeneration: Porifera are capable of regenerating their bodies, which enables them to repair any damage they may sustain.

7. Reproduction: Porifera reproduce both sexually and asexually. Asexual reproduction occurs through fragmentation and budding, while sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes.

8. Unique cell types: Porifera have unique cell types such as choanocytes that help with feeding, and amoebocytes that can differentiate into other cell types.

9. Biodiversity: Porifera are a diverse group of animals, with over 10,000 species that can vary greatly in size and shape.