CNIDAE Meaning and
Definition
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Cnidae refers to specialized organelles found in the tiny stinging cells of a wide range of invertebrates, particularly in the phylum Cnidaria. These organelles are used primarily for self-defense, prey capture, and immobilization. The term "cnidae" is derived from the Greek word "knide," which means "nettle" or "poke," highlighting the stinging nature of these cells.
Each cnida (plural: cnidae) is contained within a capsule known as a cnidocyst, which is composed of a flexible outer wall and a coiled thread-like structure called the cnidocil. When triggered, the cnidocil causes the outwardly pointing tubule, called the cnidocyst, to rapidly eject with great force. This action expels a hook-like barb or a long filament, coated with venom, into the target organism. The venom is composed of diverse toxic substances that can immobilize or paralyze the prey or serve as a deterrent against potential predators.
Cnidae exhibit remarkable diversity in terms of structure and function. For instance, some types of cnidae possess nematocysts, which are barbed harpoon-like structures designed to pierce and inject venom into prey or potential threats. Other types have spirocysts, which encase the target in a sticky thread-like substance to immobilize or ensnare it.
The ability to discharge cnidae is a defining feature of Cnidarians, including jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydras. These organisms utilize their cnidae as a means of defense and capturing prey in their aquatic habitats. The presence of cnidae is a key characteristic that distinguishes Cnidarians from
Common Misspellings for CNIDAE
- xnidae
- vnidae
- fnidae
- dnidae
- cmidae
- cjidae
- chidae
- cnudae
- cnjdae
- cnkdae
- cnodae
- cn9dae
- cn8dae
- cnisae
- cnixae
- cnicae
- cnifae
- cnirae
- cnieae
- cvnidae
Etymology of CNIDAE
The word "Cnidae" comes from the Greek word "knidē" (κνίδη), meaning "nettle" or "sea-nettle". It derives from the Greek verb "knidēin" (κνίδειν), which means "to sting" or "to nettle". In biology, "Cnidae" refers to a specialized stinging cell found in various organisms like jellyfish and corals.
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