Knowra Spicule Spicule A spicule is a small mineral structure that supports or defends many sponges. Made chiefly of silica or calcium carbonate, spicules vary in shape and may be fused or separate.
Siliceous sponge spicule : A sponge spicule made of hydrated silica, often with a needlelike or star-shaped form. Silica forms the skeleton elements of many sponges, including glass sponges.
Biomineralization : The process by which living organisms produce minerals to form or strengthen biological structures. Sponge cells build spicules by controlling mineral deposition.
Sponge taxonomy : The classification of sponges into groups based on their anatomy, development, and evolutionary relationships. Spicule shape and composition help distinguish sponge taxa.
Hexactinellida : A class of sponges known as glass sponges, with skeletons made of siliceous spicules. Their six-rayed spicules are a characteristic example of silica-based support.
Calcareous sponge spicule : A sponge spicule composed chiefly of calcium carbonate, commonly found in calcareous sponges. Calcium carbonate distinguishes this spicule type from silica-based forms.
Sclerocyte : A sponge cell specialized in producing skeletal elements, including mineral spicules. Sclerocytes secrete and shape the minerals that become spicules.
Spicule microscopy : The examination of isolated or embedded spicules using optical or electron microscopy. Microscopy reveals fine structures used to describe and identify spicules.
Demospongiae : The largest class of sponges, with skeletons that may contain siliceous spicules and spongin. Their varied spicules illustrate the range of forms and combinations.
Sponge spicule morphology : The classification of sponge spicules by shape, size, and number of axes. Shapes such as rods, stars, and hooks help identify spicules.
Silica deposition vesicle : An intracellular compartment in some sponges where silica is concentrated during spicule formation. It provides a site for controlled silica accumulation in siliceous spicules.
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