CNIDOBLASTS Meaning and
Definition
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Cnidoblasts, also known as cnidocytes, are specialized cells found in the phylum Cnidaria, which includes jellyfish, sea anemones, and corals. These unique cells are primarily responsible for the cnidarians' ability to capture prey and defend against potential threats.
Cnidoblasts are characterized by their specialized structure, the cnidocyst, that contains a tiny, coiled filament called a cnidocil. When stimulated by an external trigger, such as touch or chemical cues, the cnidocil initiates the rapid expulsion of a harpoon-like structure called a nematocyst. This expulsion can happen within milliseconds and is facilitated by a specialized pressure system within the cnidoblast. The nematocyst is equipped with a barb or stinging structure at its tip, which injects venom into the prey or attacker upon contact.
The venom injected by cnidoblasts varies among different species of cnidarians. While it aims to paralyze or kill the prey, the venom can also cause painful stings and skin reactions in humans. The cnidoblasts' stinging cells play a crucial role in subduing and capturing prey of various sizes, as well as in defending against predators and competitors, making them vital for the survival of cnidarians.
Understanding the complex mechanisms and functions of cnidoblasts has been a subject of interest for researchers studying the biological and evolutionary adaptations of Cnidaria. The study of cnidoblasts has also had practical applications, particularly in the field of medical research, contributing to the development of new pharmaceuticals and treatments for human ailments.
Common Misspellings for CNIDOBLASTS
- cnidolblast
- cnidoblas
- cnidoblast
- cnidoblasis
- cinidoblasts
- cnidoblastes
- cnydoblasts
- cnidoblasys
- cnidoblases
- cninoblasts
- cnyoblasts
- cnidoblastses
Etymology of CNIDOBLASTS
The word cnidoblasts is derived from the Greek word cnidos, which means nettle or sting, and blastos, which means germ or bud. The term was coined in the mid-19th century to describe the specialized cells found in cnidarians (a group of aquatic organisms that includes jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones) that contain stinging capsules called cnidae. These cnidae are used for capturing prey or as a means of defense. So, cnidoblasts literally translates to stinging cells or stinging buds.
