Question

which substances give the sponge a skeletal-like support? spongin, spicules, buds, amebocytes

Explanation:

To determine the substance that gives sponges skeletal - like support, we analyze each option:

• Spongin: It is a protein - like substance that forms a fibrous network, providing a kind of skeletal support to sponges.
• Spicules: These are hard, calcareous or siliceous structures. However, the question is about the substance that gives a more general skeletal - like support, and spongin is more related to the fibrous support structure.
• Buds: Buds are involved in the asexual reproduction of sponges, not in providing skeletal support.
• Amebocytes: Amebocytes are cells in sponges that perform functions like nutrient transport and spicule formation, but they are not the main substance for skeletal support.

So, spongin is the substance that gives the sponge a skeletal - like support.

Answer:

A. Spongin