Common name: moon jelly

General information

The Moon Jellyfish, Aurelia aurita, is a captivating species known for its translucent, moonlike bell and short, delicate tentacles. It is a popular species among jellyfish enthusiasts and public aquariums due to its ethereal appearance and relatively simple care requirements in captivity. These cnidarians are found in temperate and tropical waters worldwide and are recognized by their four horseshoe-shaped gonads visible through the top of the bell.

Care

In captivity, Moon Jellyfish require specialized kreisel tanks that provide gentle, laminar water flow to prevent damage to their delicate bodies. They feed on a diet of zooplankton, which can be provided in the form of live or frozen foods specifically formulated for jellyfish. Maintaining clean water and stable salinity is crucial for their health.

Reproduction

Moon Jellyfish have a complex life cycle that includes both sexual and asexual reproduction. In the wild, they release sperm and eggs into the water column, where fertilization occurs. The resulting larvae, called planulae, settle on a substrate and develop into polyps. These polyps can asexually produce multiple ephyrae (juvenile jellyfish), which then grow into adult medusae.

Habitat

Aurelia aurita is found in a wide range of coastal environments, often in brackish waters with reduced salinity. They are commonly seen in harbors, estuaries, and near the surface in calm, sheltered bays. Their ability to tolerate varying temperatures and salinities contributes to their widespread distribution.