What is the purpose of the tentacles of a jellyfish?

The tentacles of a jellyfish serve primarily to capture prey, making this the correct answer. Jellyfish utilize their tentacles, which are equipped with specialized cells called nematocysts that contain stinging structures. When a jellyfish comes into contact with potential prey—such as small fish or zooplankton—these nematocysts can fire, injecting toxins that paralyze or immobilize the prey. This mechanism allows the jellyfish to effectively ensnare and bring its food toward its mouth.

The other options describe functions that are less relevant to the primary role of tentacles in jellyfish biology. While tentacles can play a minor role in swimming by pulsating as the jellyfish moves, they are not the main organ for locomotion. Jellyfish do not anchor themselves to substrates; their nature allows them to drift with ocean currents rather than attach to surfaces. Lastly, buoyancy in jellyfish is primarily managed through their gelatinous body rather than through the use of their tentacles. Thus, the tentacles are fundamentally designed for the purpose of capturing prey, underscoring their critical role in the jellyfish's survival and feeding strategy.