Question

Which of the following is not a primary function of the canal system in phylum Porifera?

• A. Respiration
• B. Nutrition
• C. Sexual reproduction
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Sexual reproduction

Porifera is the phylum which contains sponges. These have pores on their body with a large opening outside through which the current of water exit after passing through the spongocoel. The water current is the source of nutrition and has dissolved oxygen for respiration.

In sponges, sexes are not separate (hermaphrodite), i.e., eggs and sperms are produced by the same individual. Sponges reproduce sexually by the formation of gametes. Fertilization is internal. The sperms are passed from one sponge to the other by canal system but its primary function is respiration and nutrition.

So, the correct answer is option C.