Body having meshwork of cells, internal cavities lined with food filtering flagellated cells and indirect development are the characteristics of Phylum

In poriferans, body has meshwork of cells, internal cavities lined with food filtering flagellated cells. Such a system helps in water transport and is called canal system. 

This pathway of water transport is helpful in food gathering, respiratory exchange and removal of waste. Development in sponges is indirect having a larval stage which is morphologically distinct from the adult.