General Description

Saucer-shaped jellyfish with short arms underneath that extend from the mouth to the edge of the bell. Many short, fine tentacles are attached to the arms and the edge of the bell. Four white circles inside (internal gonads), visible through the transparent bell. Colour variable, generally bluish in Australia. Bell usually 20 cm across, up to 40 cm across.

Biology

Moon Jellyfish females carry groups of developing young on their arms. They are sought after for display in aquariums. The species found in southern Australian oceans was thought to be the same as one found all over the world, Aurelia aurita, however DNA testing revealed that our Moon Jellyfish may actually be a complex of at least 7 different species.

Distribution

Australia.

Habitat

Open water and estuaries, may be found washed ashore.

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