Tukots

Tukots are a type of small, bioluminescent marine invertebrate. They belong to the phylum Ctenophora, commonly known as comb jellies. Unlike true jellyfish, tukots lack stinging cells and instead use sticky colloblasts to capture prey. Their bodies are typically gelatinous and transparent, with eight rows of cilia that refract light, creating a rainbow effect as they move through the water. This ciliation is what gives them the appearance of having combs, hence their common name.

The bioluminescence of tukots is a fascinating characteristic, often produced in response to disturbance. This light can serve as a defense mechanism, startling predators, or it may play a role in attracting mates or prey. Their diet consists mainly of plankton and small crustaceans, which they ensnare with their sticky tentacles. Tukots are found in oceans worldwide, from surface waters to the deep sea, and play a role in marine ecosystems as both predators and prey. Their reproductive strategies vary, with some species being hermaphroditic. While generally harmless to humans, their delicate nature means they are rarely handled. The study of tukots contributes to our understanding of marine biodiversity and the evolution of bioluminescence.