The image shown here is of an animal, not a plant. This fascinating creature is a freshwater sponge, photographed in Dholpur Lake. While 98% of sponges are marine animals, this particular species thrives in freshwater environments.
The greenish coloration visible in the sponge is due to its association with green algae, which live symbiotically within the sponge. Sponges are primitive life forms, consisting of a coalition of cells that do not form true tissues or organs. Despite their simplicity, they are highly adapted to their environment.
Freshwater sponges are typically found attached to rocky surfaces along the banks of lakes or in slow-flowing streams. They filter water through a specialized system: water enters through tiny pores (ostia) and exits through larger openings (oscula). During this filtration process, they extract and consume organic matter suspended in the water, which serves as their food source.
Although they may appear plant-like, sponges are animals, making them a fascinating and unique example of primitive animal life.