Final answer:
Archaeocytes in sponges are involved in cellular digestion, nutrient transport, and spicule formation, playing essential roles in intracellular digestion and the structural support of the sponge.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function of archaeocytes in sponges involves cellular digestion, nutrient transport, and spicule formation. Archaeocytes are specialized amoeboid cells found within the mesohyl (a jelly-like layer) of the sponge. They play a crucial role in various physiological processes within the sponge.
Archaeocytes help in digesting food particles by intracellular digestion, where nutrients are absorbed after the food has been ingested by phagocytosis. In addition, these cells transport nutrients from the choanocytes to other cells, ensuring the distribution of sustenance throughout the sponge. Furthermore, archaeocytes can differentiate into various cell types, such as sclerocytes and spongocytes, which are responsible for the production of skeletal structures like spicules (made of silica or calcium carbonate) and spongin, a protein that helps in providing structural support to the sponge.
Therefore, the correct answer to what the function of archaeocytes involves is Option A: Cellular digestion, nutrient transport, spicule formation.