What are the main features of cnidarians?
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Cnidarians are a group of simple aquatic animals that live in water, mostly in oceans. They are invertabrates and include animals like jellyfish, sea anemones, corals, and hydra. Even though they are simple, cnidarians have some special features that help them survive in their environment.
Main Features of Cnidarians:
1. Radial Symmetry – Their body parts are arranged around a central point, like the spokes of a wheel. This helps them sense and respond to things from all directions.
2. Cnidocytes – They have special stinging cells called cnidocytes, used for catching prey and defending themselves. These cells can release tiny harpoons to sting or trap other animals.
3. Simple Body Structure – Most cnidarians have a soft, hollow body shaped like a sac, with only one opening that acts as both mouth and anus.
4. Aquatic Lifestyle – All cnidarians live in water, and many are found in oceans, although some also live in freshwater.
5. Two Body Forms – Cnidarians have two main shapes:
a. Polyp – A tube-like shape that is fixed in one place (e.g., sea anemone, coral).
b. Medusa – A bell-shaped body that swims freely (e.g., jellyfish).
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