Cnidarian worksheet:
Name: ______________________________ Section: ____________ Date: ____________
Cnidarian Guide Questions:
1) What unique characteristics do cnidarians have?
There are several distinctive features that set cnidarians apart. They are able to understand inputs from all
directions because they have radial symmetry, a characteristic not found in other animals. Nematocysts, which
are utilized by cnidarians for defense and prey capture, are found in specialized cells known as cnidocytes.
They usually have a core gastrovascular chamber surrounded by two layers of tissue that serve both circulatory
and digestive purposes. For fundamental coordination, cnidarians have a decentralized nerve net, unlike
higher animals with centralized neural systems. Furthermore, a great deal of cnidarians display unique polyp
and medusa body shapes during their life cycle, which further increases their capacity to adapt to a wide range
of aquatic conditions. Together, these characteristics make cnidarians distinct and productive marine
environment occupants.
2) Name the tissue layers that cnidarians have. Describe the material that is between these tissues?
The inner gastrodermis and the outer epidermis are the two main tissue layers found in cnidarians. The
animal's epidermis makes up its outer layer, while the gastrodermis lines the inside of the gastrovascular
cavity. The gelatinous material known as mesoglea is located in between these two layers. Mesoglea acts as
a supporting matrix, giving the organism flexibility and mobility while maintaining its structural foundation.
Collagen fibers and amoeboid cells are also present in this gelatinous substance, which supports the cnidarian
body structure's general foundation and strength.
3) What are the two body forms of cnidarians and make a sketch of each below.
The polyp and the medusa are the two unique body types seen in cnidarians. Typically cylindrical or vase-
shaped, polyps have a mouth encircled by tentacles at one end and are sessile organisms that are frequently
connected to a substrate. Medusae, on the other hand, have a mouth on the bottom of the bell and tentacles
that extend from the rim, giving them a bell-like or umbrella-like appearance. Medusae are more mobile than
polyps and may swim freely. Cnidarians may adapt to a variety of biological niches and lifestyles in marine
environments because to these two body shapes.