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  • Sorites: Sponges' Asexual Reproduction & Protective Structures
    The unique balls of amoebocytes that are filled with a food supply and serve as protective reproductive structures are called sorites.

    Sorites are found in some sponges (specifically, the class *Sclerospongiae*) and are a form of asexual reproduction. Here's how they work:

    * Formation: Amoebocytes, which are mobile cells in sponges, gather and accumulate food reserves.

    * Encapsulation: These amoebocytes then become encased in a protective layer, forming a sphere called a sorite.

    * Release: When conditions are favorable, the sorite is released from the parent sponge.

    * Development: The sorite can then settle and develop into a new sponge, using the stored food reserves for initial growth.

    It's important to note that while sorites are considered a form of asexual reproduction, they are not the only way sponges reproduce. Some sponges also reproduce sexually.

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