Sunday, March 12, 2023

Rhabdite



Rhabdites are small rod-shaped structures found in the epidermal cells of many invertebrates, particularly in the phylum Platyhelminthes (flatworms). They are secretory organelles composed of a matrix of mucopolysaccharides, which can be rapidly discharged upon mechanical or chemical stimulation.
In flatworms, rhabdites are important for locomotion, adhesion, and defense against predators or parasites. When discharged, the mucous-like substance produced by rhabdites can create a slippery surface that allows the flatworm to move more easily, or it can entangle or immobilize predators or parasites.
Rhabdites are also found in some other invertebrate groups, such as nematodes, annelids, and mollusks, where they may serve similar functions or have different roles.




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