Water current through the body of spongs is maintained by

Options

A. amoebocytes
B. porocytes
C. choanocytes
D. pinacocytes

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question:**
The question asks about the mechanism that maintains water current through the body of sponges.

2. **Identifying the Options:**
The options provided are:
- A) Amoebocyte
- B) Porocyte
- C) Conocyte
- D) Pinacocyte

3. **Analyzing Option A: Amoebocyte**
- Amoebocytes are motile cells in sponges that move using pseudopodia.
- Their primary function is not to maintain water current but to assist in locomotion and other functions.
- **Conclusion:** This option is incorrect.

4. **Analyzing Option B: Porocyte**
- Porocytes are tubular cells that form the pores (Ostia) in sponges.
- Their function is to allow water to enter the sponge, but they do not actively maintain the water current.
- **Conclusion:** This option is also incorrect.

5. **Analyzing Option C: Conocyte**
- Conocytes, or collar cells, are specialized cells in sponges that have a flagellum surrounded by a collar of microvilli.
- The movement of the flagellum creates a water current that brings food and oxygen into the sponge.
- **Conclusion:** This option is correct as it directly maintains the water current.

6. **Analyzing Option D: Pinacocyte**
- Pinacocytes are flat cells located on the outer surface of sponges.
- They are involved in various functions such as movement, adhesion, and signaling but do not contribute to maintaining water current.
- **Conclusion:** This option is incorrect.

7. **Final Conclusion:**
- The correct answer is C) Conocyte, as these cells are responsible for maintaining the water current in sponges.

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