OCEANSCAPE NETWORK
  • Home
  • Virtual Explorations
    • The Stream
  • Explore
  • Experience
  • Educate
Lion's mane jelly
Cnidarian
Cnidarian
EXPLORE > ANIMALS > INVERTEBRATES
​
Chrysaora fuscescens

The large sea nettle jelly seems to have the ability to hypnotize us with their rhythmic undulations and the graceful spread of their lacy tentacles.

Although jellies like the sea nettle can propel themselves using a form of jet propulsion where they squeeze water through the bells of their bodies, they cannot move quickly or pursue other animals. They must feed as they drift on the ocean’s currents, spreading their tentacles out like nets to catch fish and other unsuspecting prey. Once an animal has been immobilized by the sea nettle’s sting, special tentacles called “oral arms” begin digesting it even before it has reached the jelly's mouth. Despite this potent sting, sea nettles present no real danger to human beings and are often eaten by seabirds and large fish.

​Range and Habitat

Pacific sea nettles are particularly abundant off the Oregon and California coasts. In recent years, their numbers appear to be increasing dramatically which may be due to climate change.

Conservation Status

Common.
Picture
Picture
About Oceanscape
The Oregon Coast Aquarium's Oceanscape Network is an educational program for youth designed to inspire curiosity in science, nature, conservation and outdoor exploration while providing valuable classroom resources for educators. MORE.
Quick Links
​Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads
Site Updates | For Educators | For Youth | Translate This Website | Contact Form | Privacy Policy | Conditions of Use | Website Accessibility
Finding the Aquarium
2820 SE Ferry Slip Road, Newport, Oregon 97365
(541) 867-3474 | oceanscape@aquarium.org
Oceanscape Network © 2023 by the Oregon Coast Aquarium. All rights reserved. 
  • Home
  • Virtual Explorations
    • The Stream
  • Explore
  • Experience
  • Educate