Phylum Cnidaria Flashcard

Front

What happens when a coral dies?

Back

It becomes a part of the reef structure.

Front

What is coral?

Back

A hard, stony substance formed by marine organisms.

Front

What characteristic is unique to the phylum Cnidaria?

Back

Stinging cells called cnidocytes.

Front

In which type of environments do members of the phylum Cnidaria live?

Back

Marine environments.

Front

What are the body types found in the phylum Cnidaria?

Back

Polyp and medusa forms.

Front

What are cnidocytes?

Back

Specialized cells in Cnidarians that contain stinging structures used for defense and capturing prey.

Front

What is the role of coral reefs in marine ecosystems?

Back

They provide habitat, shelter, and food for many marine species.

Front

What is the difference between polyp and medusa forms?

Back

Polyp is a sessile form, while medusa is a free-swimming form.

Front

What type of symmetry do Cnidarians exhibit?

Back

Radial symmetry.

Front

How do Cnidarians reproduce?

Back

They can reproduce both sexually and asexually.