Thread-like or filament-like structures in sea anemones and corals that can be expelled for defense or feeding purposes.
From Greek a- (without) and kontos (pole or spear), or possibly from Latin acontium meaning a javelin-like structure. The word describes their javelin-like appearance and function.
Sea anemone acontia are like biological harpoons filled with stinging cells—when threatened, the anemone shoots them out to paralyze prey or attackers, making them one of nature's sneakiest weapons.
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