Nematocyst a Cellular Weapon | 26 Dec 2023

Evolution has equipped certain aquatic animals with a potent defence mechanism known as the nematocyst. 

• Nematocysts are specialized cells found in Cnidarians which include jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydras that serve as potent weapons for hunting prey and defending against predators.
  • Each nematocyst contains a capsule with a coiled, thread-like tubule and toxins capable of rapid ejection with an acceleration surpassing that of a bullet.
• Cnidarians contain cnidocytes which release nematocysts when triggered by potential prey. Nematocysts pierce prey's outer layer or inject toxins into its body.
  • Toxins in nematocysts have paralytic (paralysis) or cytolytic(destroying cells) effects on the prey.
  • Cnidarians use a combination of toxins for predatory or defensive purposes.