|
|
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.
Find more great stories in the OCEAN ARCHIVES >
|
|
|