Colloblasts consist of a collocyte containing a coiled spiral filament, internal granules and other organelles.
However, unlike cnidocytes, which are venomous cells, colloblasts contain adhesives which stick to, rather than sting the prey.
[3] The apical surface of colloblasts consist of numerous cap cells that secrete eosinophilic granules[1] that are thought to be the source of adhesion.
The spiral filament absorbs the impact of the rupture, preventing the ensnared prey from escaping.
[5] Colloblasts are found in all ctenophores except those of the order Beroida, which lack tentacles, and the species Haeckelia rubra, which use cnidocytes from cnidarian prey.