Definition & Meaning of "polyp"

What is a "polyp"?

A polyp is a tiny, typically sessile invertebrate organism that belongs to the phylum Cnidaria, which includes animals like corals and sea anemones. Polyps have a cylindrical body with a mouth surrounded by tentacles at one end. They are often attached to a substrate, such as a rock or coral reef, using a base called a foot. Polyps are known for their ability to reproduce asexually through a process called budding, where new polyps grow and eventually detach to form independent individuals. They also possess specialized cells called cnidocytes, which contain stinging structures called nematocysts used for defense and capturing prey. Polyps can form large colonies or solitary individuals, depending on the species, and they play a crucial role in the growth and formation of coral reefs, as well as providing habitats for a wide range of marine organisms.