Polyp describes which body form of cnidarians?

Polyp describes which body form of cnidarians?

• A. A cylindrical body form of cnidarians, typically attached to a substrate and having tentacles for feeding
• B. A free-swimming medusa form
• C. A larval stage of crustaceans
• D. A floating plant

Answer: (A)

Cnidarians have two common body forms: the polyp and the medusa. The polyp is cylindrical and usually attached to a surface, with the mouth at the top surrounded by tentacles used for feeding. This sessile, tube-like form is seen in organisms like hydras, sea anemones, and corals. The other form, the medusa, is umbrella-shaped and free-swimming, like jellyfish. A crustacean larval stage and a floating plant are not cnidarian body forms. So the description matches the cylindrical, sessile polyp form with feeding tentacles.