Question

What is a nematocyst and what is it used for?

Answer 1

Nematocyst:

1. It is a minute, elongated capsule produced in the cells called cnidoblasts of members of Phylum Cnidaria such as jellyfishes, and sea anemones.
2. The nematocyst is produced in cnidoblast cells and contains a hollow coiled thread that secretes a poison to capture prey and protect from enemies.
3. This poison is used to capture prey and protect from enemies, thus it is a defense and protective organelle of Cnidarians.