Cnidocyte

A specialized cell found in cnidarians that discharges a capsule called a cnida. Its rapid firing can pierce, entangle, or adhere to prey and other targets.

Nematocyst: A pressurized cnida containing a coiled tubule that everts rapidly when triggered. This capsule type fires from cnidocytes to pierce or entangle targets.
Cnidaria: A phylum of aquatic animals that includes jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydras. Cnidocytes are the defining specialized cells of this animal phylum.
Prey capture: The methods an organism uses to detect, seize, and secure food organisms. Discharged cnidae can immobilize or hold prey for transfer to the mouth.
Cnidocyte development: The process by which precursor cells differentiate into mature cnidocytes during cnidarian growth. It explains how the capsule and discharge apparatus are assembled within the cell.
Cnida: A specialized intracellular capsule used by cnidarians for prey capture, defense, or attachment. Cnidocytes are defined by the cnida they contain and discharge.
Cell differentiation: The process by which cells acquire distinct structures and functions during development. Cnidocytes arise as specialized cells with a distinctive capsule and firing machinery.
Animal defense: Structures and behaviors that reduce an animal’s risk of injury or predation. Cnidocyte discharge deters predators and can injure animals that contact cnidarians.
Cnidocyte differentiation: The developmental specification of cells into the cnidocyte type in cnidarians. This process determines which cells acquire the specialized firing machinery.
Cnidocil: A hair-like sensory projection associated with some cnidocytes that helps detect mechanical contact. Its deflection can contribute to triggering capsule discharge.
Epithelial cell: A cell that forms part of a tissue covering or lining a body surface or cavity. Cnidocytes are commonly embedded among epithelial cells in cnidarian tissues.

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