Moon Jelly (a.k.a. Jellyfish,
Sea Jelly)
Aurelia aurita
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Range and habitat:
Moon jellies are found worldwide in temperate
and tropical waters. They are common in open waters of Monterey Bay and
along the California coast, as well as in the waters off the East Coast,
Europe, Japan and the Gulf of Mexico
Natural diet:
Moon jellies feed on small plankton.
Size / weight range:
Moon jellies reach up to 15 inches (38 cm) in diameter
Interesting facts:
The coloration of a moon jelly often changes depending on its diet. If the jelly feeds extensively on crustaceans, it turns pink or lavender. An orange tint hints that a jelly’s been feeding on brine shrimp.
Although moon jellies have a sting, they pose little threat to humans.
Location at The Toledo Zoo:
Aquarium
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