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Due to their consistently altering descriptions and characterizations, sponge taxonomical research is extremely theoretical. Only by innumerable quantities of specific studies may we ever hope to fully understand the poriferan phylum. Its taxonomical record is far from completion, but each day of research is exposing new facts that will aid in the completion of the puzzle. The perfection of this puzzle bears the significance of understanding the connections between humans, highly developed animals, and sponges, the most primitive of all animal life. As new studies accomplish their objectives, new species of porifera are unearthed. Taxonomical structure of the phylum may be re-defined. In order to assist science in the pursuit of a complete taxonomical tree, scientists perform field observations of sponges. Hours are spent submerged beneath the surface of the water, attaining data. Hours are spent in labs isolating and analyzing the data. Finally, extensive publications may be produced that offer a wealth of knowledge. Studies may deal with new methods of taxonomy, special species, and rediscriptions of families, species, genuses, or orders. |
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