A section of a sponge can be cut off and grow back into a complete sponge through which method?

Study for your DIVE Biology Quarterly Exam 3. Prepare with engaging quizzes, flashcards, and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The process through which a section of a sponge can be cut off and subsequently grow back into a complete sponge is known as regeneration. Regeneration is a remarkable biological feature where organisms are capable of replacing or restoring lost or damaged parts. In sponges, if a piece is severed, that fragment has the ability to reorganize and undergo cellular differentiation to reform a complete sponge, utilizing specialized cells that can take on various functions necessary for sponge structure and function.

In contrast, gemmule formation is a form of asexual reproduction that sponges use to survive unfavorable conditions, involving the creation of a dormant cluster of cells. Budding involves the growth of a smaller new organism from a parent organism, which may not occur as a result of cutting. Binary fission is a method more commonly associated with unicellular organisms where the cell divides into two identical cells, which doesn't apply to the regenerative capabilities of sponges. Understanding regeneration helps in grasping how sponges exhibit remarkable resilience and adaptability in their environments.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy