Question

polymorphism of cnidaria​

Answer 1

Explanation:

Polymorphism refers to the occurrence of structurally and functionally more than two different types of individuals within the same organism. It is a characteristic feature of Cnidarians, particularly the polyp and medusa forms, or of zooids within colonial organisms like those in Hydrozoa.

Answer 2

Answer:

Polymorphism is the phenomenon of occurrence of the same species of the organism in more than one form with different functions. Polymorphism is a Greek word, polys meaning many and morphe meaning form.

This occurrence of polymorphism guarantees well-organized division of labor between several individuals. In coelenterates different individuals get united in the form of a colony and hence polymorphism is a very important feature of this phylum. Class hydrozoa is the best example of polymorphism.

There are two main forms included in the polymorphism of the coelenterates namely Polyps and meduase

Polyps: This form is tubular and the mouth is surrounded by tentacles only at one end while the other end is usually attached by a pedal disc to the substratum.

Meduase: This form is umbrella or bowl shaped with marginal tentacles and mouth centrally located on the projection of the lower concave surface.

Generally polyps are sessile and meduase forms are motile. But a homology exists between the two in their basic features.