This relatively distinctive little hydromedusa is common in nearshore waters of Puget Sound to Alaska during summer months.  The conical bell is equally high as wide, up to 2.5 cm.  The stomach is suspended below the bell margin by a broad peduncle and ends with 4 lips.  Four V-shaped radial canals are readily visible and connect to the stomach.  The most conspicuous part of this jelly are the folded, light brown gonads that cover the stomach.  A pair of long tentacles attach on opposite sides of the bell, and about 80 small tentacles line the margin.  Stomotoca is an active jelly, with periods of swimming followed by motionless sinking.  When disturbed it tends to collapse the bell, stops swimming, and sinks.  Other hydromedusa, like Clytia, are this jelly's favored dinner fare.  Stomotoca ranges from southern California to Alaska, but is relatively uncommon south of Washington.  

All photographs © David Wrobel and may not be used or copied without permission!

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