Updated Nematocyst Types in Tentacle of Venomous Box Jellyfish, <i>Chironex indrasaksajiae</i> <sub>(Sucharitakul, 2017)</sub> and <i>Chiropsoides buitendijki</i> <sub>(Horst, 1907)</sub> (Cnidaria, Cubozoa) in Thai Waters

Updated Nematocyst Types in Tentacle of Venomous Box Jellyfish, <i>Chironex indrasaksajiae</i> <sub>(Sucharitakul, 2017)</sub> and <i>Chiropsoides buitendijki</i> <sub>(Horst, 1907)</sub> (Cnidaria, Cubozoa) in Thai Waters

The multiple-tentacle box jellyfish, <i>Chironex indrasaksajiae</i> (Sucharitakul, 2017) and <i>Chiropsoides buitendijki</i> (Horst, 1907), are venomous species found in Thai waters. They are responsible for numerous envenomations through their stinging organelles, nematocyst...

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Main Authors: Thippawan Yasanga, Klintean Wunnapuk, Rochana Phuackchantuck, Lakkana Thaikruea, Thunyaporn Achalawitkun, Purinat Rungraung, Sineenart Santidherakul
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-01-01
Series:Toxins
Subjects:
Cubozoa
box jellyfish
nematocyst
morphological
stinging organelles
pray capture
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6651/17/1/44
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Summary:The multiple-tentacle box jellyfish, <i>Chironex indrasaksajiae</i> (Sucharitakul, 2017) and <i>Chiropsoides buitendijki</i> (Horst, 1907), are venomous species found in Thai waters. They are responsible for numerous envenomations through their stinging organelles, nematocysts. These specialized microscopic structures discharge venom, yet detailed knowledge of their types and morphology in these species remains limited. This study updates the characterization of nematocyst types and features in <i>C. indrasaksajiae</i> and <i>C. buitendijki</i> using light and scanning electron microscopy for detailed examination. Four distinct nematocyst types were identified: banana-shaped microbasic p-mastigophores, oval-shaped microbasic p-rhopaloids, sub-spherical microbasic p-rhopaloids, and rod-shaped isorhizas. In <i>C. indrasaksajiae</i>, banana-shaped microbasic p-mastigophores exhibited significant intraspecific variability, ranging from 30.26 µm to 102.56 µm in length and 6.42 µm to 17.01 µm in width. Conversely, <i>C. buitendijki</i> showed a narrower size range, 72.17 µm to 98.37 µm in length and 10.73 µm to 16.48 µm in width, based on multiple individuals. The size ranges for the other nematocyst types were consistent across both species. This study enhances the understanding of nematocyst morphology in these box jellyfish, providing a foundation for further research on venom delivery mechanisms and improved management of jellyfish envenomations in Thai waters.
ISSN:2072-6651

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