noun an irrational fear of stings or jellyfish
Cnidophobia is a specific phobia related to an irrational fear of stinging cells or animals such as jellyfish or sea anemones.
Cnidophobia is important in marine biology when researching the impact of cnidarians on marine ecosystems and human interactions with these organisms.
In zoology, cnidophobia is relevant when studying the behavior and characteristics of cnidarians, the phylum that includes jellyfish and sea anemones.
Cnidophobia may be used in a fictional story to create tension or fear in a character who has an extreme fear of stinging marine animals.
A psychologist may use cnidophobia as a case study in treating specific phobias and anxiety disorders, using exposure therapy or cognitive-behavioral techniques to help patients overcome their fear.
A marine biologist may encounter cnidophobia when studying jellyfish or other cnidarians, and may need to take precautions to ensure the safety of individuals with this phobia during research expeditions.