Difference Between Polyp and Medusa, Functions and Examples

Difference Between Polyp and Medusa: Polyps and medusae are two distinct stages in the life cycle of organisms in the phylum Cnidaria, which includes jellyfish and sea anemones. Aquatic invertebrates have two body forms: polyps, which are nonmotile, and medusae, which often swim freely. While some species exist only as polyps or medusae, others go through both life cycle stages. Polyps, which are stationary and sessile organisms, include solitary examples like sea anemones and freshwater hydra. The medusa, or free-swimming stage, is commonly called a jellyfish. The following article discusses the difference between polyp and medusa.

Difference Between Polyp and Medusa Overview

Difference Between Polyp and Medusa

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About Polyp

1. Reproduction: Polyps are responsible for making new polyps. They can do this by budding, where little buds grow into new polyps, or by releasing special cells into the water during spawning.
2. Feeding and attachment: Polyps attach themselves to surfaces like rocks or coral reefs and use their tentacles to catch food. They spend a lot of time feeding and growing.

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About Medusa

1. Reproductive Role: Medusae serve as the sexual, free-swimming stage in the life cycle. They produce eggs and sperm for sexual reproduction, and fertilized eggs develop into larvae, which then transform into polyps.
2. Mobility: Medusae are mobile and capable of swimming, allowing them to move around and explore new areas. This mobility is essential for finding mates and engaging in sexual reproduction.