Pacific Sea Nettle: The Ocean's Golden Drifter
The Pacific sea nettle (Chrysaora fuscescens) is a stunning jellyfish found along the northeastern Pacific Ocean, from British Columbia to Mexico. Its golden-brown bell, which can grow up to 1 meter (3 feet) wide, and long, maroon tentacles trailing up to 4.6 meters (15 feet), make it a mesmerizing sight.
This carnivorous jelly uses its tentacles, armed with stinging nematocysts, to paralyze prey like zooplankton, small fish, and other jellyfish. Fascinatingly, it often carries hitchhikers, such as small crabs or fish, inside its bell for protection!
The Pacific sea nettle thrives in aquariums due to its striking colors and ease of care, making it a favorite among marine life enthusiasts. Despite its sting, it poses little danger to humans, adding to its allure as a graceful ocean drifter.
