1. Critters of the
Chesapeake Bay
Sponges

2. Sponges Sponges are in the phylum Porifera which means “pore bearer”.
Can you see how they got that name?

3. Sponges
Sponges lack true tissues, organs, a mouth and gut like those found on most multi cellular animals.

4. Sponges are simple bottom dwelling organisms that filter their food.

5. Sponges All sponges have skeletal supports that are known as spicules.
They can be calcium, silicon or a protein matrix.

6. Sponges
One of the most common or obvious sponges in the bay is the Red Beard Sponge.

7. Sponges When alive, this sponge is bright orange or red.
When it dies, its skeleton is brown.

8. Sponges
In higher salinity areas, Yellow Boring Sponge can often be found on oysters or other shell materials.

9. Over time, the sponges can eat away at the oyster shells.