Sponges are simple aquatic animals belonging to the phylum Porifera. They are primarily found in marine environments but can also live in freshwater. Sponges have porous bodies that allow water to flow through them, enabling them to filter food particles like bacteria and plankton from the water. They lack true tissues and organs, making them unique among animals. Sponges come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, often resembling a soft, squishy mass. They reproduce both sexually and asexually, with some species capable of regenerating from small fragments. Sponges play a crucial role in their ecosystems by providing habitat for other marine organisms and helping to maintain water quality.