Jellyfish

Jellyfish

Sam Cincotta and Rosemary Kim
University of Georgia, Athens

Aurelia
© John Pickering, 2005

Aurelia(Desor, 1848)
Sea nettle

Last updated: 13 July, 2006

Discover Life | All Living Things | Identification Guides | Cnidaria

Overview

Jellyfish are included in the phylum Cnidaria and are spread out between most of the Cnidarian classes. They are well-known for their bell-shape and their ability to sting. They inhabit aquatic environments, and while some live in very deep waters, most can be found in shallow areas close to shore. Jellyfish are carnivorous and eat zooplankton and comb jellies. They capture their prey by shooting out nematocyst from their tentacles, which have the ability to sting.The jellyfish have two dominant stages, the polyp stage and the medusa stage. During the polyp stage, they remain rooted to the sea floor and don't move at all. During the medusa stage, the more recognizable form, jellyfish obtain their bell-shape and move by propelling themselves through the water. They are considered a delicacy in some countries. Their stings can be harmful to humans and should be treated immediately.

Index

Links to other sites

Index

References

Discover Life | All Living Things | Identification Guides | Cnidaria