Question:
"How do jellyfish sting you?"
From David California, USA

Answer:
On their tentacles, jellyfish have stinging cells called cnidocytes. Each of these cnidocytes contains a "nematocyst," that when triggered by touch or chemicals, shoots into the prey like a harpoon. A toxin is also released which stuns or kills the food. Some jellyfish, like the sea nettle, do not have very potent toxin, and will hurt but will not cause lasting damage. Others, like the box jellyfish, are extremely dangerous--these are able to kill humans a severe sting! There are jellies that have no stinging cells at all--comb jellies have rows of tiny undulating cilia that help them move around, and filter feed small plants from the sea.


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