Phylum Cnidaria Classes: 1. Coral- Anthozoa 2. Hydra- Hydrozoa 3. Sea Jellies/ Jellyfish- Scyphozoa 4. Sea Anemones- Anthozoa subclass Hexacorallia
Body Structure A. Polymorphism = more than one body form 1. Polyp 2. Medusa
Polyp Coral polyp Tube with tentacles around the mouth Sessile “Juvenile” Form Coral polyp
Polyp (sea anemone)
Medusa Umbrella shape Tentacles around mouth Motile, Free-swimming “Adult” Form
Tentacles Discharged nematocyst Have nematocysts (stinging cells) Coiled thread discharges like a harpoon Contains neurotoxin Paralyzes prey Discharged nematocyst
Habitat A. Aquatic 1. Most Marine 2. Few fresh-water
Feeding A. Carnivores (predators) B. Process of feeding 1. Tentacles sting prey with nematocysts 2. Tentacles grab prey 3. Prey pulled into mouth Lion’s mane eats another jelly
Lion’s mane jellyfish
Ecological Role Predators and prey Neurotoxins in medical research Coral – jewelry, building, reefs (surfing!) Coral reefs - habitat for many -great biodiversity - protect coastline E. Symbiosis with other organisms
Clown fish & eggs with sea anemone
Class Anthozoa: Corals
Class: Anthozoa Subclass Hexacorallia
Class- Hydrazoa
Class Scyphozoa