Cnidocell

/ˈnaɪdoʊsɛl/ noun

Definition

Another term for cnidocyte; the specialized cell in jellyfish and sea anemones that contains a harpoon-like stinging organelle.

Etymology

From Greek knide (sting) + Latin cella (cell). This is an alternative English term that emphasizes the cellular nature of the stinging structure.

Kelly Says

Each cnidocell is like a tiny crossbow trigger—brushing a cnidocil (a sensor hair) causes the whole cell to fire instantaneously!

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