Spicules are structural elements found in most sponges. … The meshing of many spicules serves as the sponge’s skeleton and thus it provides structural support and potentially defense against predators. The composition, size, and shape of spicules are major characters in sponge systematics and taxonomy.

What are spicules function?

Tiny spicules help make the sponge’s body rigid. They interlock to provide support like the bones in familiar animals. Animation helps visualize how the elaborate shapes of the microscopic spicules could help give the sponge’s body structure.

How are spicules useful to scientists?

Spicules are structural elements found in most sea sponges. … They provide structural support and deter predators. They are very hard, prickly, and even quite difficult to cut with a knife.