In zoology, one of two principal cnidarian body forms and, sometimes, an individual in a bryozoan colony. The cnidarian polyp body is a hollow cylindrical structure. The lower end attaches to another body or surface.
The upper, or free, end is directed upward and has a mouth surrounded by extensible tentacles that bear stinging structures called nematocysts. The tentacles capture prey, which is then drawn into the mouth. The polyp may be solitary (&see; sea anemone) or colonial (&see; coral). The body wall consists of three dermal layers. The other cnidarian body form is the medusa.
This is the complete article, containing 96 words
(approx. 1 page at 300 words per page).
View More Summaries on Polyp
