Describe the two body forms of cnidarians and give an example of each. Solution The phylum cnidaria represents the jellyfish like organisms in it. It is a large phylum containing these primitive organisms which are aquatic by nature. Most of these organisms are jelly-fish like by appearance, but they can be broadly divided into two types as discussed below: 1. Motile/swimming medusae forms: As the name suggests, these are motile forms of cnidarians which can move from one place to another by propulsion of water and thus swimming. Structurally, these forms look like inverted umbrella and bloomy. They are voluminous in nature and have gelatinous transluscent appearance. For example, scyphomedusae, stauromedusae, cubomedusae and hydromedusae, 2. Sedentary polyp forms: The forms of cnidarians normally form the coral in the sea. As they are sedentary, their body structure comprise of lower penetrating regions which help them attach to the substratum and the upper surface remains free. The upper body surface is generally flashy in appearance which attracts the prey. For example, gorgonian polyps, scyphozoan polyps, hydra etc. Thus, different morphological forms of cnidarians can be directly used to distinguish between different classess of cnidaria..