Ectodermis

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[ek-toh-dur-mihs]
Outer cell layer of a polyp that houses nematocysts and secretes mucus. Corals only have two major layers of tissue.

Related Articles:
  • Glossary: Mesoglea
    Clear, jelly-like substance between the ectodermis and gastrodermis of a polyp. Helps maintain the form of the polyp.
  • Glossary: Mucus (coral)
    A gelatinous substance secreted by the ectodermis and used for protection, to aid in food capture, or to remove sediment and waste. Mucus is usually moved by cilia.
  • Glossary: Nematocyst
    Specialized stinging cells located in the ectodermis of the tentacles of a polyp that aid in predation.
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