Porifera (Sponges)

Family: Porifera
This family, scientifically known as phylum, is consisting of sponges. Sponges are actually animals, but are sessile. This means this organism are immobile since their structures are attached to rocks, sand, or other sponges. Sponges are invertebrates, meaning their backbones are absent. Around the world, there are three main types of sponges which are the calcareous, glass, and demosponges.

Calcareous
Calcareous sponges are sponges created by calcium carbonate in the form of calcite. They take a wide range of shapes, including irregular massive forms, vase-shaped bodies on a stalk or works of thin tubes. Most species of calcareous sponges are widely found in the tropical waters of the Equator, however, they can also be found in temperate coastlines as well.

​Glass
Glass sponges are characterized or classified by their skeleton of silica spicules (needle-like structures) that often create beautiful patterns and shapes. The term ''glass' is given to these sponge for its shining appearance and translucent structures.

​Demosponges
This is the most diverse class of sponges. They occur in both marine and freshwater habitats, ranging from tide pools, estuaries, or lakes. They have a hollowed body structure, meaning it has chambers and water canals. Both siliceous spicules and organic fibers may form a skeleton, but primitive types may lack skeletal support.