Acontia

Acontia are thin, thread-like structures found inside certain sea anemones and related animals. When these creatures feel threatened, they can extend the Acontia through their mouths or special pores. These threads are laden with stinging cells called nematocysts, which they use to defend themselves and catch prey. Think of Acontia as internal squirts of stinging threads that serve as a natural defense mechanism, helping the animal ward off predators or immobilize food. They are an important part of the anemone’s biology, providing both offense and defense in its aquatic environment.