| Size |
Usually smaller |
Moderate size |
| Canal System |
Simple, with a single central spongocoel |
More complex, with a system of radial canals leading to the spongocoel |
| Body complexity |
Simplest body plan |
Intermediate complexity |
| Structure |
Tubular and vase-shaped body |
Body with a more folded or convoluted structure |
| Osculum |
Located at the apex (top) of the body |
Typically located on the side or in a depression |
| Surface area for feeding |
Limited surface area for water flow |
Increased surface area due to folding, allowing more efficient water flow |
| Water circulation |
Water enters through dermal ostia, passes through spongocoel, and exits through osculum |
Water enters through dermal ostia, moves through radial canals, and exits through spongocoel and osculum |
| Choanocyte chamber |
Absent |
Present, forming chambers in the radial canals |
| Examples |
Leucosolenia |
Sycon, commonly used to represent syconoid sponges |
