 EPOD - a service of USRA

The Earth Science Picture of the Day (EPOD) highlights the diverse processes
and phenomena which shape our planet and our lives. EPOD will collect and
archive photos, imagery, graphics, and artwork with short explanatory
captions and links exemplifying features within the Earth system. The
community is invited to contribute digital imagery, short captions and
relevant links.


 Sea Lung Jellyfish

   October 15, 2021

    IMGP5217 2

   Photographer:  Michela Meda

   Summary Author:  Michela Meda;  Cadan Cummings

   The photo above features a  jellyfish known in the Mediterranean as
   the “ sea lung” ( Rhizostoma Pulmo). The sea lung is a large
   species of jellyfish that has a semispherical-shaped cap and is
   opalescent, transparent white colored with a blue-violet edge. One of
   the larger species of jellyfish, the sea lung can reach impressive
   lengths over 59 inches (160 cm) long, grow to 20-24 inches (50-60 cm)
   in diameter, and weigh up to 22 pounds (10 kg). Anatomically, the
   central body area of a jellyfish is sometimes called a  dumbbell and
   is composed of eight extensions of white curled and lumpy fabric, from
   which extends eight tentacles. The name of sea lung is due to the
   typical throbbing movement of the jellyfish as it swims, usually in
   shallow waters and lagoons. During the summer storms and the arrival of
   winter, jellyfish can become  beached and sometimes these events can
   occur in large numbers.

   The sea lung eats primarily  plankton and other small prey.
   Uniquely, this species of jellyfish often lives in  symbiosis with
   small fish that protect it from the predators swimming inside the
    umbrella. Although moderately venomous, this type of jellyfish is
   not particularly dangerous to humans and only causes temporary minor
   irritation, burning skin, and itching for particularly sensitive
   individuals. This can occur In water when it releases stinging
   substances for defensive purposes that cause small abrasions of strong
   itching and slight burning.
     * Marina di Vasto, Chieti, Italy Coordinates: 42.111583, 14.708222

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Animal Links

     *  Animal Diversity Web
     *  ARKive
     *  BirdLife International
     *  Bug Guide
     *  Discover Life
     *  Integrated Taxonomic Information System
     *  Microbial Life Resources
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