Sponges

Sea sponges, despite lacking eyes, mouth, or heart, are classified as animals because they cannot produce their own food. They capture food through their porous structure, which allows water to flow through and trap tiny plants and animals. Historically, sponges have been harvested for their absorbent properties, useful for cleaning. Today, synthetic sponges replicate these properties, offering a reusable cleaning tool. The design of synthetic sponges is inspired by the natural sponge's ability to absorb and capture food.

Why is a sea sponge classified as an animal?

• It has a heart and mouth.

• It can produce its own food.

• It captures its food from the environment.

• It has eyes to see its prey.

What characteristic of sponges allows them to absorb water?

• Their color

• Their ability to swim

• Their porous nature

• Their solid structure

How do sea sponges capture their food?

• By photosynthesis

• By using tentacles

• By swimming after prey

• By filtering water through pores

What happens to the waste products in a sea sponge?

• They are used for energy.

• They are expelled back into the sea.

• They are stored inside the sponge.

• They are converted into food.

Why are synthetic sponges widely used today?

• They are less absorbent than natural sponges.

• They are made from natural materials.

• They are more colorful than natural sponges.

• They mimic the absorbent properties of natural sponges.