post #1349534 post #157742

Cnidarians, animals of the phylum Cnidaria are animals found exclusively in aquatic environments. Their distinguishing feature are cnidocytes, specialized cells they use mainly for capturing prey. Their bodies consist of mesoglea, a non-living jelly-like substance, sandwiched between tissue.

They have two basic body forms: swimming medusazoa, such as the jellyfish, and sessile polyps. Both forms are radially symmetrical, have mouths surrounded by tentacles that have cnidocytes, and contain a single orifice and body cavity used for both digestion and breathing. Many cnidarian species produce colonies that are single creatures composed of multiple, joined organisms, and have coordinated bodily functions and activities controlled by simple receptors. Though usually consisting of simple organs and functions, some species have simplistic eyes. Some species have the ability to reproduce asexually.

Species

• anthozoan (anemone and coral)
• coral
• ambient_coral
• sea_anemone
• jellyfish
• ambient_jellyfish
• box_jellyfish
• man_o'_war _{(despite appearances, this cnidarian is not a jellyfish)}

Not to be confused with

• ctenophore
• comb_jelly

See also

• ambient_sealife
• marine
• cnidarian