Which structures are the hair-like, easily detached bristles found clustered on cactus bumps known as?
Answer
Glochids
The most troublesome components of many cacti defense systems are not the large, obvious spines but microscopic structures called glochids. These are minute, bristle-like filaments that grow in dense clusters specifically emanating from the areoles, which are the raised bumps on the cactus surface where spines typically emerge. Glochids are distinct because they are designed to detach very easily upon the slightest touch, facilitating their entry into the skin, where their inherent barbs cause irritation and embedding problems.
Related Questions
What specific characteristic makes glochids exceptionally difficult to pull out once embedded in the skin?What adhesive technique is commonly suggested for gently lifting superficial glochids away from the skin?What is the likely result of aggressively rubbing the area after contact with cactus spines containing glochids?What is a significant long-term possibility if a retained cactus spine fragment cannot be eliminated by the body?Which warning sign indicates a secondary bacterial infection rather than just the expected inflammatory reaction to cactus irritants?When is it particularly advised to seek prompt medical attention for a cactus puncture wound on a finger?Why might standard X-rays sometimes be insufficient for locating retained fine cactus spines during medical assessment?Which structures are the hair-like, easily detached bristles found clustered on cactus bumps known as?What role do chemical mediators play in the localized inflammatory response hours after a cactus prick?What specific long-term condition involves the body forming a small lump around an unresolvable spine fragment?