Porifera Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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porifera

[pɒˈrɪf(ə)rə ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

marine animals

Porifera is a phylum of simple aquatic animals known as sponges. They are multicellular organisms that have bodies full of pores and channels allowing water to circulate through them. Sponges are filter feeders, extracting food particles from the water as it flows through their bodies.

Synonyms

sponges.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
porifera	Used primarily in scientific or academic contexts when referring to the phylum of aquatic animals that have porous bodies. Porifera are among the simplest multicellular organisms There are several classes within the phylum Porifera
sponges	Used in everyday language as well as scientific contexts. It can refer to both the natural aquatic organisms and synthetic cleaning tools. Sponges can filter water and capture small particles I used a sponge to clean the kitchen counter

Word

Description / Examples

porifera

Used primarily in scientific or academic contexts when referring to the phylum of aquatic animals that have porous bodies.

Porifera are among the simplest multicellular organisms
There are several classes within the phylum Porifera

sponges

Used in everyday language as well as scientific contexts. It can refer to both the natural aquatic organisms and synthetic cleaning tools.

Sponges can filter water and capture small particles
I used a sponge to clean the kitchen counter

Examples of usage

Sponges belong to the phylum Porifera.
Porifera are essential in maintaining marine ecosystems.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

Sponges are among the simplest multicellular organisms, lacking true tissues and organs.
They feed by filtering water, trapping food particles as water passes through their pores.
Some can live for thousands of years and have incredible regenerative abilities.

Ecology

Sponges play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by filtering water and providing habitats for other small creatures.
They contribute to nutrient cycling in ocean environments, helping to maintain healthy ecosystems.

Fossil Record

Sponges are some of the oldest known animals, with fossils dating back over 500 million years.
Their unique structures contribute to understanding ancient marine environments and the evolution of life on Earth.

Cultural Significance

In some cultures, sponges have been traditionally harvested and used for bathing and cleaning.
Artisans use natural sponges in painting and cosmetics, showing their versatility beyond marine environments.

Origin of 'porifera'

Main points about word origin

The term 'porifera' comes from Latin, meaning 'pore bearer,' highlighting their unique structure.
The name reflects the many tiny pores in their bodies that allow water to flow through them.

The word Porifera is derived from the Latin words 'porus' meaning pore and 'ferre' meaning to bear. The term was coined by German biologist Karl Friedrich Burdach in 1827. Sponges, classified under the phylum Porifera, are considered one of the earliest forms of multicellular life on Earth, with fossil records dating back over 580 million years.