Which term describes the stationary cnidarian body form with tentacles for feeding?

Which term describes the stationary cnidarian body form with tentacles for feeding?

• A. Nematocyst
• B. Spicules
• C. Plankton
• D. Polyp

Answer: (D)

The stationary feeding form of cnidarians is the polyp. A polyp attaches to a surface and uses its tentacles surrounding the mouth to capture prey and pull it into the gastrovascular cavity for digestion, staying in place like a vase-shaped organism (examples include sea anemones, hydras, and corals). This is different from the other term, which refers to a stinging cell used to catch prey (not a body form), a skeletal element, or drifting organisms. The other main cnidarian form is the medusa, which is free-swimming, not stationary.

The stationary feeding form of cnidarians is the polyp. A polyp attaches to a surface and uses its tentacles surrounding the mouth to capture prey and pull it into the gastrovascular cavity for digestion, staying in place like a vase-shaped organism (examples include sea anemones, hydras, and corals). This is different from the other term, which refers to a stinging cell used to catch prey (not a body form), a skeletal element, or drifting organisms. The other main cnidarian form is the medusa, which is free-swimming, not stationary.