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Invisible hunters in the ocean: Do you know how stinging cells catch prey?
In the vast ocean, there are some mysterious and deadly creatures hidden. They rely on a special type of cell - stinging cells, which become the weapons of these hunters. These cells not only capture prey but also provide effective defense against predators. The diversity and functions of stinging cells enable marine organisms to demonstrate extraordinary wisdom in hunting and survival. This article will take an in-depth look at the structure, function, and operating mechanism of stinging cells. Let us discover the wonders of these marine organisms together.
Structure and function of stinging cells
Stinging cells, also known as thorn buds, are cells that can release thorns and contain a secretory organelle called a nematocyst. This vesicle contains a curled hollow tube structure, which is instantly released to attack when stimulated. The interior of the stinging cells contains toxins that can effectively drive away predators or capture prey.
The ejection speed of stinging cells is amazing, the release process takes only 700 nanoseconds, and can reach an acceleration of more than 5.4 million times.
The structure of the nematocysts is very unique, consisting of multiple structural elements, including the unique -collagen. These proteins bind together to form a stable structure that ensures that the stinging cells can function properly when necessary.
Release mechanism
The release mechanism of stinging cells is key to their efficiency. When the trigger is subjected to external stimulation, the calcium ions in the stinging cells are rapidly released, causing a strong osmotic pressure, quickly absorbing water and forcing the internal stinging tube to quickly stretch and release. The speed and incredible force of this process allows it to successfully penetrate its prey.
Studies have shown that the pressure of stinging cells when released can reach 7 GPa, which is the same level as a technical bullet.
Detection and capture of prey
The effectiveness of stinging cells comes not only from their structure and release mechanism, but also from their sophisticated design for prey detection. These cells are connected to supporting cells and, by sensing mechanical and chemical stimuli, can accurately select appropriate prey and avoid being stabbed themselves. When prey appears, the stinging cells are rapidly released, injecting toxins.
Different types of stinging cells
In marine organisms, there are many types of stinging cells, which can be mainly divided into three categories: piercing, adhesion and entanglement. Each type of stinging cell plays a specific role in capturing prey. For example, piercing cells show strong killing power when targeting large prey, while adhesive cells use their stickiness to capture small prey.
Some stinging cells are specialized for sticking to prey, while others are responsible for stinging attacks, and this diversity makes the ecological interactions more complex.
Development and regeneration of stinging cells
Stinging cells are single-use cells and therefore need to be constantly renewed. Different species display diverse mechanisms in the renewal process of stinging cells. In some hydroids, stinging cells develop from specialized stem cells and undergo multiple cell divisions. This continuous renewal ensures that organisms maintain their ability to survive and reproduce in the face of a changing environment.
Toxicity of stinging cells
The toxicity of stinging cells is essential for capturing prey. Even a single stinging cell of some species is enough to paralyze a small arthropod. In particular, the stinging cells of the box jellyfish are considered to be among the most venomous organisms in the world, releasing toxins that can cause severe pain or even be fatal to humans.
ConclusionThe evolution of toxicity and capture systems in the ocean fully demonstrates the adaptability of organisms to the competition for survival.
Stinging cells are not only hunters in the ocean, but also an amazing biological design in nature. This cellular complexity marks the pinnacle of biological evolution and demonstrates the various adaptive characteristics that life has developed in the face of challenges. In an era of climate change and ecosystem alterations, how will these invisible hunters adjust their hunting strategies to meet future challenges?
