trichocyst
/ˈtrɪkəˌsɪst/
noun
- A small, threadlike structure in certain single-celled organisms (such as paramecia) that can be discharged for defense or capturing prey.
- Scientists study the trichocyst to understand how cells release proteins quickly.
- Each trichocyst lies just under the cell membrane, ready to eject when the organism is disturbed.
- Under the microscope, the paramecium's trichocyst fired a thin thread to ward off a predator.