| cnida | Synonym: nematocyst. Origin: G. Knide, nettle (05 Mar 2000) |
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| cnidaria | A phylum of radially symmetrical invertebrates having a body composed of two layers of cells which comprise definite tissues. It includes hydroids (hydra), jellyfish, sea anemones, and corals. (12 Dec 1998) |
| cnidarian venoms | Venoms from jellyfish, coral, sea anemone, nematocysts, etc. They contain haemo-, cardio-, dermo- , and neurotoxic substances and probably enzymes. They include palytoxin, sarcophine, and anthopleurine. (12 Dec 1998) |
| cnidoblast | Developing form of cnidocyte. (18 Nov 1997) |
| cnidocyst | Stinging mechanism used for defence and prey capture by Hydra and other members of the Cnidaria (Coelenterata). It is located within a specialised cell, the nematocyte and consists of a capsule containing a coiled tube. When the nematocyte is triggered, the wall of the capsule changes its water permeability and the inrush of water causes the tube to evert explosively ejecting the nematocyst from the cell. The tube is commonly armed with barbs and may also contain toxin. (18 Nov 1997) |
| cnidocyte | <biology> Ectodermal cell of Cnidaria (coelenterates) specialised for defense or capturing prey. Each cell has a nematocyst that can be replaced once discharged. (18 Nov 1997) |
| cnidosis | An obsolete term for urticaria. Origin: G. Knidosis, nettle-rash, fr. Knide, a nettle (05 Mar 2000) |
| Cnidospora | Synonym: Microspora. Origin: G. Knide, nettle, sea nettle, + sporos, seed (05 Mar 2000) |
| Cnidosporidia | Synonym: Microsporida. Origin: G. Knide, nettle, sea nettle, + Mod. L., fr. G. Sporos, seed (05 Mar 2000) |