The Biology of Sponges 2003
Distributed by BioMEDIA Associates, PO Box 1234, Beaufort, SC 29901-1234; 877-661-5355
Produced by Bruce Russell and David Denning
Directed by David Denning
VHS, color, 15 min.
Jr. High - Adult
Biology, Environmental Studies, Science
Date Entered: 11/19/2004
Reviewed by Barbara Butler, University of Oregon Institute of Marine BiologyBiology of Sponges is a superb 15-minute crash course in the phylum Porifera and is the newest addition to the well respected Biology of series from eBioMEDIA ASSOCIATES. The audience is introduced to four characteristics of all sponges: they feed by filtration, have a unique cell type not found in other animal phyla (the choanocyte or collar cell), they lack internal organs, and they have an internal skeleton of either crystals (spicules) or fibers (collagen). The video is divided into ten sections which describe everything about sponges ranging from their specialized cell types to their ecology and reproduction. The producers introduce facts and concepts in lay terms but provide the scientific terminology (i.e. archeocytes, choanocytes, etc.) both in the narration and on screen, making this video accessible to a range of audiences. Viewers will learn about sponge evolution and how to differentiate between the three living classes of sponges (Calcerea, Hexactinellida and Demospongia).
An excellent interpretive guide is available on the BioMEDIA website (http://www.ebiomedia.com/prod/BOsponges.html) which provides additional material not included in the narration. My only criticism of this video would be a less-than-seamless transition between each of the ten sections but excellent underwater footage, microscope footage and time-lapse segments make this a very informative and well illustrated introduction to sponge biology. This video is highly recommended for all libraries, particularly those supporting a science curriculum.