Nematocysts are protective capsules in cnidarians, such as jellyfish and sea anemones, produced by cnidoblast cells, which release a stinging thread when activated. These structures serve to poison or kill prey and are triggered by sensory cnidocyls. There are four types of nematocysts: penetrant, volvent, and glutinant, each with specific functions in defense and attack.

1. Describe the structure and function of nematocysts.
Solution
Nematocysts are protective capsules found in the phylum Cnidaria(jelly fish, sea anemone etc)
produced by specialised cells called cnidoblast.Upon proper stimulation (chemical or
mechanical) a hollow thread like structure pops aside this stinging structure is used to poison or
kill prey.Cnidocyls are sensory structure present in the cnidoblast which triggers the release of
nematocysts through an operculum.
Cnidarians are invertebrates they use a hydrostatic skeleton.Cnidocytes can be used once and
constantly replaced.
4types nematocysts are present
Penetrant:it penetrates the target and release toxins; used for defence
Volvent:it wraps around the target
Large and small Glutinant : use sticky fibres called velcro to attack target