Question

In Porifera, the skeleton forming cells are called as

• A. Amoebocytes
• B. Thesocytes
• C. Archaeocytes
• D. Sclerocytes

Answer 1

The correct option is D Sclerocytes

Poriferans are diploblastic and have two germ layers ectoderm and endoderm. The internal skeleton is made up of spongin fibres and spicules. Spicules are the structural elements found in most sponges.

Sclerocytes are known as skeleton forming cells. Sclerocytes are specialised cells that secrete the mineralized structures in the body wall of poriferans. In sponges they secrete calcareous or siliceous spicules, which are found in the mesohyl layer of sponges. The sclerocytes produce spicules via formation of a cellular triad. The triad of cells then undergo mitosis, creating six sclerocytes. Hence, option D is correct.