gemmule

Examples of gemmule in the following topics:

• Physiological Processes in Sponges

  • An atypical type of asexual reproduction is found only in freshwater sponges, occurring through the formation of gemmules.
  • Gemmules are environmentally-resistant structures produced by adult sponges wherein the typical sponge morphology is inverted.
  • In gemmules, an inner layer of amoebocytes is surrounded by a layer of collagen (spongin) that may be reinforced by spicules.
  • In freshwater sponges, gemmules may survive hostile environmental conditions such as changes in temperature.
  • Gemmules are capable of attaching to a substratum and generating a new sponge.

• Phylum Porifera

  • When conditions deteriorate, such as when temperatures drop, many freshwater species and a few marine ones produce gemmules: "survival pods" of unspecialized cells that remain dormant until conditions improve.