Sclerocyte

Sclerocytes are specialised cells that secrete the mineralized structures in the body wall of some invertebrates.

In sponges they secrete calcareous or siliceous spicules which are found in the mesohyl layer of sponges. The sclerocytes produce spicules via formation of a cellular triad. The triad of cells then undergo mitosis, creating six sclerocytes. In pairs, the sclerocytes secrete the minerals which create the spicules.