3. Sponges are described as sessile organisms. In your own words, describe what this means.

Sponges being called sessile organisms means they're like the ultimate homebodies of the animal kingdom! These interesting creatures are fixed in one spot and don't move around like most animals do. Instead, they spend their lives attached to a surface, like rocks or coral reefs, filtering water for food. Imagine living in your favorite nook forever—sponges have mastered that cozy, stationary lifestyle while still managing to thrive in their aquatic environments! While sponges may not win any races, their sessile nature allows them to be efficient filter feeders. They systematically draw in water through tiny pores, trapping tiny food particles (like plankton) and absorbing nutrients. This also means they play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems by contributing to water clarity and quality. So, while they may be rooted in place, they’re quite the workaholics when it comes to filtering and cleaning up their surroundings!