Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Pedalia are the muscular, paddle-like structures located at the base of the tentacles in certain members of the class Cubozoa. They play a crucial role in locomotion and prey capture for these jellyfish.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Pedalia are unique to box jellyfish, which belong to the class Cubozoa.
Each pedalium typically supports one or more tentacles.
The structure is equipped with nematocysts, which are specialized cells used for capturing prey and defense.
Pedalia assist in the rapid and agile swimming capabilities of box jellyfish.
Damage to pedalia can significantly impair a box jellyfish's ability to hunt and navigate.