nematocystfilled

The term nematocystfilled is a descriptive, nonstandard compound adjective used in zoological descriptions to denote tissue or specimens in which nematocysts are densely packed or readily discharged.

Nematocysts are specialized stinging organelles within cnidocytes of cnidarians (jellyfish, sea anemones, corals, hydroids). Each nematocyst is a capsule containing a coiled tubule, which is evoked upon stimulation, delivering venom. Triggering can occur via mechanical, chemical, or electrical stimuli; the cnidocil, a hairlike structure on the cnidocyte, acts as a sensory trigger.

The term nematocystfilled often refers to tentacles or gastrodermal tissues that bear high densities of nematocysts, enabling rapid prey capture and defense. In such tissue, discharge-ready nematocysts may be replenished after use; some species maintain high nematocyst loads in anticipation of predation.

Medical relevance: Contact with nematocyst-filled tissues can cause stings in humans; reactions range from mild irritation to severe pain, dermatitis, or systemic effects, depending on species and venom.

In research and taxonomy, nematocystfilled helps describe morphological features or functional states in developmental stages or in certain life stages, such as cnidocyte-rich tentacles.