Definitions for "Coelenterata"
The coelenterata (commonly known as corals) are abundant in the fossils in greater Cincinnati area rocks. Nearly all corals are colonial organisms, with many individual animals (polyps) living within a single large calcium carbonate skeleton. In contrast, the "horn corals" or "cup corals" that are commonly found in ancient rocks such as those in southwestern Ohio were solitary corals with a thick calcium carbonate skeleton.
hydras; polyps; jellyfishes; sea anemones; corals
An aquatic animal of the Phylum Coelenterata which is characterized by a central mouth usually surrounded by tentacles bearing stinging cells, and no anus; includes sea anemones, corals, and jellyfish.