Sponges represent the link between unicellular and multicellular organisms. Sponges can be easily confused with tunicates, but the spongy texture, the dull, felt like surface and some conspicuous pores help in distinguishing between the two phyla. These are sessile organisms, attached permanently to a rock or other substrate. Some species grow as thick layers on hard surfaces, some form interesting shapes, resembling a tennis ball, an elephant ear, or a small vase. The bright colors, yellow, orange, red, even blue are mainly due to symbiotic microorganisms. Sponges come in a variety of colors and shapes. Porifera, the Latin name of the phylum, means “pore bearer”, referring to the visibly apparent openings on the surface. This ancient group has been around for 600 million years. The humble Sponge is an often overlooked and underappreciated marine organism.
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