Natural sponges
Natural sponges are simple aquatic animals belonging to the phylum Porifera. They are primarily found in marine environments, although some species inhabit freshwater. Sponges have a porous body structure that allows water to flow through them, enabling them to filter food particles and oxygen from the water. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and their bodies are made up of a network of cells and a skeleton composed of silica or calcium carbonate.
These organisms play a crucial role in their ecosystems by providing habitat for other marine life and helping to maintain water quality. Natural sponges reproduce both sexually and asexually, with some species capable of regenerating from small fragments. They have been used by humans for thousands of years for cleaning and bathing due to their absorbent properties.