Concept information
Preferred term
nematocysts
Type
-
Topic
Definition
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Nematocysts are the taxon-defining features of all cnidarians including jellyfish, sea anemones, and corals. They are highly sophisticated organelles used for the capture of prey and defense. The nematocyst capsule is produced within a giant post-Golgi vesicle, which is continuously fed by proteins from the secretory pathway. Mature nematocysts consist of a hollow capsule body in which a long tubule is coiled up that, upon discharge, is expelled in a harpoon-like fashion.
Broader concept
In other languages
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Spanish
URI
https://lod.nal.usda.gov/nalt/340864
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