Hydra, cnidocyte (nematocyte)

Charles Krebs · Post by **Charles Krebs** » Mon May 03, 2010 10:56 am

Was looking to photograph some algae from a sample, but didn't find a shot I liked so I concentrated on a hydra that had made it's way onto the slide.

In particular, I find the numerous nematocytes interesting. The operation of these cells is fascinating (like poisonous micro-harpoons):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cnidocyte

The top image provides an overview. The other images concentrate on the base of the tentacles, and the tentacles themselves. The cnidocytes that are shaped like pumpkin seeds measure about 12x15 micron.

Olympus BHS, 60/1.40 S Plan Apo, 1.67 NFK Photo-eyepiece, DIC illumination with electronic flash.

Tom Jones · Post by **Tom Jones** » Mon May 03, 2010 11:09 am

Absolutely stunning Charlie!!

Tom

RogelioMoreno · Post by **RogelioMoreno** » Mon May 03, 2010 11:22 am

Wow, I am in shock.

Rogelio

gpmatthews · Post by **gpmatthews** » Mon May 03, 2010 2:37 pm

Excellent stuff Charlie!

Planapo · Post by **Planapo** » Mon May 03, 2010 11:31 pm

Jeez Charlie!

These three last ones look like the pictures in my zoology textbook... but those are drawings!
Awesome! You never cease to amaze me!

--Betty

Joaquim F. · Post by **Joaquim F.** » Thu May 06, 2010 2:15 pm

Hi, I especially like the third picture but the whole series is absolutely amazing.

Greetings

Joaquim

discomorphella · Post by **discomorphella** » Thu May 27, 2010 8:50 pm

Wow Charlie, there's more detail here than in most thin sections. I assume this is a squash preparation. Amazing.

--David