ANIMAL LIFE - 29 phyla - invertebrates (97% of animal species) - The Invertebrates:  A great overview from Kimball's   Biology Pages - vertebrates (3%) -The Vertebrates:  A great overview from Kimball's Biology Pages - occur in marine (place of origin), freshwater, and terrestrial habitats. Characteristics 1.Multicellular eukaryotes: cells are specialized (division of labor) to form tissues and organs (except for the most primitive) 2.heterotrophic (consumers): ingest food; digest internally, usually in a digestive system 3.locomotion - during at least some part of the life cycle (many have sessile adult stages) and motion: by means of contracting fibers 4.diplontic life cycle (diploid adult) 5.sexual reproduction producing sperm and eggs; some asexual; embryo undergoes stages of development

	Many of the survey sites are rich palettes of color and texture created by the blend of fishes, sponges, algae, coral and other invertebrates. The level of light available at deeper depths has surprised researchers. This light source allows for the existence of many of these species. Related Links Gulf of Mexico Deep Sea Habitats Gulf of Mexico Deep Sea Habitats: Connecting The Dots NOAA Ocean Explorer Gallery

	Introduction to Porifera SPONGES Phylum Porifera Keys to the Invertebrates of Woods Hole- Porifera PORIFERA Nearctica - Natual History - Porifera Systematics of Porifera Curt Smecher's Sponges Page Khoyatan Sponge Page Munro Koala Dreams