In: Biology
What are cnidocytes? What is the name of the organelle inside cnidocytes? What are the biological functions of this structure?
Cnidocytes:
A cnidocytes also called a cnidoblast or nematocyte is an explosive cell containing one giant secretory organelle or cnida that defines the phylum Cnidaria which includes the corals, sea anemones, hydrae, jellyfish, etc. Nematocysts are cell organelles found in specialized cells called cnidocytes or cnidoblasts, which are modified epidermal interstitial cells.
Biological function of the structure :
The externally oriented side of the cell has a hair-like trigger called a cnidocil, which is a mechano- and chemo-receptor. When the trigger is activated, the tubule shaft of the cnidocyst is ejected and, in the case of the penetrant nematocyst, the forcefully ejected tubule penetrates the target organism.