nematocyst
/nɪˈmætəˌsɪst/
noun
- A tiny, stinging structure found in the cells of jellyfish, sea anemones, and other cnidarians, used to capture prey or defend against threats.
- Each nematocyst contains a coiled, harpoon-like thread that injects toxin.
- When a jellyfish tentacle touches your skin, thousands of nematocysts fire venom into it.
- Scientists study nematocysts to understand how jellyfish sting and how to treat stings.