| Chrysaora fuscescens
Brandt, 1835 : Sea nettle Phylum Cnidaria / Class Scyphozoa / Order Semaeostomeae / Family Pelagiidae |
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Few underwater sights in Monterey Bay are more spectacular than a
massive swarm of sea nettles. Nearshore aggregations are most common during fall and
winter months, when dozens can be seen at one time. Sea nettles possess a distinctive
golden-brown bell (up to 30 cm diameter). The whitish oral arms and thin maroon tentacles
(24 in number) may trail behind for several meters. Contact with the tentacles can produce
a painful sting. Sea nettles are common visitors to California and Oregon nearshore
waters, and may be found from Mexico to British Columbia. They swim continuously, usually
against any current with the oral arms and tentacles extended. Prey include a wide variety
of zooplankton - crustaceans, salps, pelagic snails, comb jellies, fish eggs and larvae,
and other jellies. Despite the potent sting, many animals prey on sea
nettles, including marine birds known as fulmars as seen in the second
photo. Dense swarms of thousands may persist in an area for many
months and can be quite a nuisance for fishing activities, scientific trawls and any kind of
water intake. The East Coast is also blessed with its version of the sea nettle
that has a troublesome reputation. It is possible to establish polyps and
culture Chrysaora in captivity. When provided appropriate aquarium
conditions (such as a kreisel tank), the medusae do well under captive
conditions. Sea nettles have proven to be very popular for display at
public aquariums.
All photographs © David Wrobel and may not be used or copied without permission!