# Most sponges are both male and female. In sexual reproduction, they may play either role. The 'male' sponge would release sperm into the water, which would travel and then enter a 'female' sponge. After fertilization in the sponge, a larva is released into the water.

# Most sponges are both male and female. In sexual reproduction, they may play either role. The 'male' sponge would release sperm into the water, which would travel and then enter a 'female' sponge. After fertilization in the sponge, a larva is released into the water.

# Asexual reproduction also occurs in sponges in various ways; the best known method is called gemmulation. Gemmulation begins when aggregates of cells, mostly archaeocytes, which, when they become laden with reserve food granules become isolated at the surface of a sponge and surrounded by a protective covering.

# After fertilization in the sponge, a larva is released into the water. It floats around for a few days and then sticks to a solid to begin its growth into an adult sponge. Sponges are also able to reproduce asexually through budding.