Difference Between Polyp and Medusa
Polyp |
Medusa |
|
Body Shape | Polyps are generally cylindrical or vase-shaped | medusae have a bell-shaped body. |
Mobility | Polyps are usually sessile, meaning they are attached to a substrate and do not move | medusae are free-swimming |
Feeding | Polyps use their tentacles to catch food and bring it to their mouth | medusae use their trailing tentacles to catch prey and bring it to their mouth |
Reproduction | Polyps reproduce asexually by budding | medusae reproduce sexually |
Size | Polyps are usually smaller than medusae | medusae are bigger than polyps |
Sensory Structure | Polyps have a specialized sensory structure called a statocyst, which is used for balance and orientation | medusae have a pair of specialized sensory structures called rhopalia, which are used for sensing light, gravity, and movement |
Habitat | Polyps are usually found in colonies attached to a substrate | medusae are found in open water |
Lifespan | Polyps can live for years | medusae have a much shorter lifespan |
Body Structure | Polyps have a single opening for the mouth and anus | medusae have separate openings |
Symmetry | Polyps are usually radially symmetric | medusae are bilaterally symmetric |
Difference Between Polyp and Medusa
Polyp and Medusa are two body forms found in the phylum Cnidaria, which includes jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones. These two forms represent different stages in the life cycle of these organisms.
Polyps are typically cylindrical or vase-shaped organisms that attach themselves to a substrate, such as a rock or a shell. They have a mouth surrounded by tentacles that are used for feeding and defense. Medusae, on the other hand, are free-swimming jellyfish-like organisms that have bell-shaped bodies and trailing tentacles.
Also Read: Phylum Cnidaria
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