Aurelia labiata facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Aurelia labiata |
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| Aurelia labiata at the Vienna Zoo | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Aurelia
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| Species: |
labiata
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Aurelia labiata is a type of moon jellyfish. It belongs to a group of sea animals called cnidarians, which also includes corals and sea anemones. This jellyfish is usually bigger than its cousin, the Aurelia aurita. It can grow up to 45 centimeters (about 1.5 feet) wide! Even though it's often larger, its size can sometimes be similar to A. aurita. Most Aurelia labiata jellyfish have a bell (the main body) that has 16 wavy edges or scallops.
Where They Live
Aurelia labiata jellyfish mostly live in the northern Pacific Ocean. You can find them all the way from the west coast of California to the eastern coast of Japan. These jellyfish are known to gather in huge groups, sometimes even with their relatives, the Aurelia aurita.
How They Behave
Aurelia labiata jellyfish have special ways of moving. They can swim in a certain direction and also move up and down in the water. Swimming in a direction helps them get away from animals that want to eat them. It also helps them find food and swim through rough water. Moving up and down lets them avoid hitting rocks or swimming into areas with very low salt levels. These movements are possible because they have special sensors and a nervous system. This helps them move better and survive.
Who Eats Them
Other cnidarians sometimes eat Aurelia labiata jellyfish. Examples include the Phacellophora camtschatica and the Cyanea capillata. Like many jellyfish, they are also a meal for sea turtles. Sea turtles are not bothered by the jellyfish's stings.
