Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Marine Science => Topic started by: obaley on 12/07/2010 12:30:02

Title: What happens when a jellyfish stings you?
Post by: obaley on 12/07/2010 12:30:02

obaley asked the Naked Scientists:
   
What is actually happening when a jellyfish stings you?

What do you think?

Title: What happens when a jellyfish stings you?
Post by: tangoblue on 18/07/2010 02:53:12

It's kind of the same as a nettle stinging you. a nettle has small hairs that, when touched, harden and inject an irritant. A jellyfish has 'stinging cells'. When you touch them they shoot into you. I'm sure that it's not that simple but thats all i know. Hope it helps.

Title: What happens when a jellyfish stings you?
Post by: tangoblue on 18/07/2010 03:06:03

I looked it up because it was annoying me, and the stinging cells are called cnidocytes.