Yesterday I spent my time snorkeling with freshwater sponges.
Bellow you will find photos and information about Spongillidae I retrieved off the internet - I just find them interesting other worldly and beautiful, see what you think.
A freshwater sponge is a simple, non-moving invertebrate animal that lives in lakes and rivers. They are characterized by their ability to filter water for food and their unique reproductive strategy involving gemmules, which are dormant structures that can survive harsh conditions.
Freshwater sponges are multicellular but lack organs. They have specialized cells that help them filter water and extract food particles and bacteria.
They are typically found attached to rocks, logs, or plants in clean, flowing water, such as lakes and streams.
They are filter feeders, meaning they draw water into their bodies and filter out organic matter, bacteria, and other small particles for food.
It always amazes me the things we share this planet with - and may not realize are there.