Introduction: What are Jellyfish?

Jellyfish are fascinating creatures that belong to the phylum Cnidaria, which also includes sea anemones and corals. They are found in every ocean of the world, from the surface to the deep sea. Jellyfish come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, ranging from the tiny Irukandji jellyfish, which is only a few millimeters in diameter, to the giant Nomura’s jellyfish, which can measure up to 2 meters in diameter.

Jellyfish are known for their unique appearance, which consists of a bell-shaped body with long, trailing tentacles. These tentacles are lined with stinging cells called nematocysts, which they use to catch prey and defend themselves from predators. Despite their name, jellyfish are not fish; they are invertebrates, which means they do not have a backbone.

The Diversity of Jellyfish

Jellyfish are a diverse group of animals that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. There are over 2,000 species of jellyfish, ranging from the tiny, transparent planktonic species to the large, colorful, and complex species found in coral reefs. Some jellyfish are bioluminescent, meaning they can produce their own light. Others have intricate patterns and designs on their bodies that make them invisible to predators.

Jellyfish are found in every ocean of the world, from the Arctic to the Antarctic. They can live in shallow waters near the coast or in the deep sea, where they are adapted to the extreme conditions of the abyss. Some species are even capable of surviving in freshwater environments, such as lakes and rivers. The diversity of jellyfish is a testament to their adaptability and resilience, making them an important part of marine ecosystems.