Greater Moon Jelly

The Greater Moon Jelly (Aurelia labiata) is a mesmerizing marine drifter commonly found along the Pacific coast of North America. Renowned for its translucent, saucer-like bell and graceful pulsations, this cnidarian captivates beachgoers and divers alike. Unlike typical jellyfish, Aurelia labiata possesses a highly distinctive scalloped bell margin divided into sixteen distinct lobes, giving it a beautifully complex, flower-like appearance as it drifts through temperate coastal waters. These gentle giants are often seen gathering in large aggregations called blooms. They rely on oceanic currents to travel while using their delicate, stinging tentacles to capture tiny planktonic prey. While their venom is generally harmless to humans, they play a crucial role in marine food webs, serving as a vital food source for sea turtles and larger predatory jellyfish species.

Lebensraum: Found in coastal waters, fjords, and sheltered bays along the North American Pacific coast, often close to the surface or near marinas and docks.