EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Cnidarians contain specialized cells known as cnidocytes (“stinging cells”) containing organelles called nematocysts (stingers). These cells are present around the mouth and tentacles, and serve to immobilize prey with toxins contained within the cells. Nematocysts contain coiled threads that may bear barbs.

Detailed explanation-2: -Cnidocytes, also known as stinging cells, are specialized neural cells that typify the phylum Cnidaria (sea anemones, corals, hydroids, and jellyfish) [1, 2, 3]. These cells contain an organelle called cnida or cnidocyst, which is the product of extensive Golgi secretions.

Detailed explanation-3: -Each cnidocyte contains a large organelle (called a cnida or cnidocyst), which encapsules a coiled thread that is often barbed and associated with toxins. Cnidocytes vary in morphology, and serve specialized functions related to prey capture and defense.

Detailed explanation-4: -The stinging organelles of jellyfish, sea anemones, and other cnidarians, known as nematocysts, are remarkable cellular weapons used for both predation and defense. Nematocysts consist of a pressurized capsule containing a coiled harpoon-like thread.

Detailed explanation-5: -However, nematocysts, the microscopic stinging organelles that are common to all members of the phylum Cnidaria, occur and act in both external and internal tissue structures.