Question

Based on the diagram, identify the structure

A. It is an archaeocyte
B. It is a gemmule
C. It is a amoebocyte
D. It is a spicule

Answer 1

Hint: Sponges, who belong to the phylum Porifera, are a basal Metazoa clade and Diploblasts' sibling. They are multicellular species with a jelly-like sandwiched between two thin layers of cells and a body full of pores and channels that cause water to flow through them. Sponges reproduce in two ways: asexually and sexually. Most sexually reproducing poriferans are hermaphroditic, meaning they develop eggs and sperm at various times.

Complete answer:
Option A: Amoeboid cells present in sponges are called archaeocytes or amoebocytes. They are totipotent, which means they can perform a variety of roles depending on the animal. These cells have a similar structure to stem cells in that they have a high cytoplasmic content that allows them to morph according to their function.
So, option A is incorrect.
Option B: It's a gemmule, to be precise. Gemmules are a type of sponge body that is involved in asexual reproduction. It is a collection of cells capable of forming a new body, such as an adult sponge. They can live in harsh conditions due to their resistance to desiccation (drying out), freezing, and anoxia (lack of oxygen).
So, option B is correct.
Option C: A mobile cell found in the bodies of invertebrates such as echinoderms, mollusks, tunicates, sponges, and some chelicerates is known as an amebocyte or amoebocyte. Pseudopodia are the means by which they travel.
So, option C is incorrect.
Option D: Some sponges have spicules, which are structural components. They offer structural protection as well as serve as a deterrent to predators.
So, option D is incorrect.

Hence, Option B is the correct answer.

Note:
A Gemmule is an asexually formed mass of cells capable of evolving into a new organism or into an adult freshwater sponge. Sponge buds are tiny bud-like cells that sponges form to survive harsh environmental conditions. A freshwater sponge can replicate sexually as well as asexually. Budding and gemmulation are the most common forms of asexual reproduction. Gemmules are the internal buds produced by freshwater sponges. These gemmules are tough and covered in an embryonic cell cluster that is dormant. Freshwater sponges are multicellular marine sponges belonging to the Porifera Kingdom Phylum. Sponge, for example, is a member of this empire.