Question

Which of the following is asexual means of reproduction in porifers?

• A. Reduction bodies
• B. Gemmules
• C. External buds
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

All of the above

Reduction bodies are the assemblage of amoebocytes which are covered with pinacoderm to combat the unfavorable conditions and grow into new sponges upon arrival of the favorable growing season. Gemmules are also formed to combat the unfavorable extremes of winters and summers. Gemmules germinate through micropyle upon water availability and develop into new sponges. Buds refer to a group of archaeocytes forming a small outgrowth on pinacoderm and remain attached or detach from the parent body. Thus, the correct answer is option D.