Ctenophores, also known as comb jellies or sea gooseberries, are a diverse group of marine animals that belong to the phylum Ctenophora. They are soft-bodied, gelatinous organisms that inhabit the world's oceans, ranging from shallow coastal waters to deep-sea habitats. Ctenophores are named for the rows of cilia, known as combs, that cover their bodies and propel them through the water.
Ctenophores typically have a translucent, umbrella-shaped body with long tentacles that extend from their mouths. These tentacles usually bear specialized cells called colloblasts that are used to capture prey. Unlike their close relatives, the jellyfish, ctenophores lack stinging cells (cnidocytes) and instead rely on adhesive cells to immobilize their prey.
These fascinating creatures come in various sizes, with some species measuring only a few millimeters long while others can reach sizes of several meters. They exhibit a mesmerizing bioluminescence phenomenon, producing light through the action of specialized cells called photocytes, which are distributed across their bodies.
Ctenophores play important roles in marine ecosystems as they are both prey and predators. They feed on a variety of organisms, including small zooplankton and fish larvae, while larger species may even consume other comb jellies. Additionally, they serve as significant food sources for numerous marine organisms, including turtles, fish, and seabirds.
Despite their delicate appearance, ctenophores have evolved various adaptations that enable their survival in diverse ocean conditions. Their key characteristics, such as their unique locomotion, feeding mechanisms, and striking bioluminescence, make ctenophores a captivating and important group within marine biology studies.
