Final answer:
Cnidocytes, which are found in phylum Cnidaria, are specialized stinging cells used by cnidarians such as jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones for capturing prey and defense.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cnidocytes, which are specialized stinging cells known as nematocysts, are found in the phylum Cnidaria. These cells are essential for the survival of cnidarians as they play a critical role in capturing prey and defense. Cnidarians such as jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones are equipped with these cells, which can release toxins when triggered. The phylum Cnidaria showcases a more complex level of organization than the phylum Porifera (sponges), incorporating true tissues and radial symmetry.
With this in mind, the answer to the question is d. phylum Cnidaria. This phylum includes marine species that exhibit radial or biradial symmetry and are diploblastic, meaning they develop from two embryonic layers. Other phyla mentioned in the question, like Porifera, Nemertea, and Nematoda, do not have cnidocytes.