ScienceSeptember 3, 2026

cnidarians

nih-DAIR-ee-unz

Definition

Members of the phylum Cnidaria, a group of aquatic animals that includes corals, sea anemones, jellyfish, and hydras, characterized by specialized stinging cells.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'knide' (nettle), referring to the stinging cells used by these animals to capture prey or defend themselves.

In the news

In this article, cnidarians are mentioned to explain the biological classification of the coral species being studied, specifically regarding how they regulate symbiotic relationships with algae.

Genetic Structure and Environment-Linked Loci in a Resilient Coral Along Eutrophication Gradient

Read the full article ↗

Bioengineer.org

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