Porifera - Morphology, Classification, & Evolution - Invertebrate Paleontology

Explore the fascinating world of Porifera (sponges) in this comprehensive 23-minute video lecture. Dive deep into sponge anatomy, structure, and morphology, including detailed explanations of spicule types and the three levels of complexity: ascon, sycon, and leucon. Learn about the classification of sponges, covering glass sponges, calcareous sponges, demosponges, stromatoporoids, and archaeocyathids. Discover the intricacies of sponge reproduction, ecology, and their evolutionary history throughout the Paleozoic and Mesozoic Eras. Examine the mysterious archaeocyathids and current research questions surrounding their classification. Gain valuable insights into invertebrate paleontology and the importance of sponges in reef evolution.