Description of cnidocytes

Question

Give a brief description of cnidocytes? Write down the name of the capsule in the cnidocyte? Write down the biological functions of this structure?

Answer 1

The Cnidocytes are specialized cells present in the coelenterates. They are found in epidermis and hold toxic substances which can hurt, paralyze or kill other animals.

Each cnidocyte has an internal capsule recognize as nematocyst where the real urticating substance is stored. When a cnidocyte is stimulated it causes nematocyst to expose a filament containing toxic chemical.

Cnidocytes and their nematocysts have the biological functions of defending individual from external aggression and of assisting to capture their prey.