Amoebocytes(worker cells)
cells that deliver oxygen throughout the sponge and food, creating support structures
Amoebocytes, also known as worker cells, are cells found in sponges that perform a variety of functions. They are often described as having an amoeboid shape, meaning they are able to change their shape and move through the body of the sponge in search of foreign particles or materials to digest.
One of the primary functions of amoebocytes is to trap and digest food particles. They accomplish this by using specialized structures, known as pseudopodia, to surround and engulf small food particles. Once the food particle has been engulfed, it is digested and the nutrients are released into the surrounding tissue for use by other cells in the sponge.
In addition to their role in digestion, amoebocytes also play a key role in reproduction. They are able to produce both eggs and sperm, and can even exchange genetic material with neighboring sponges in order to increase the genetic diversity of the population.
Finally, amoebocytes are also involved in the production of spicules, which are small, needle-like structures found within the body of the sponge. These spicules provide structural support for the sponge, and are often used in taxonomic classification due to the wide variety of shapes and sizes that they can take.
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