Lion’s Mane Jellyfish, or Giant Jellyfish, is one of the largest known Jellyfish in the world. Their tentacles contain nematocysts that house poison for capturing prey, these hair or mane-like tentacles are the reason behind the name.
They are also bioluminescent; able to emit light and glow in the dark.
Their range is pretty confined to the cool waters of the Arctic and North Pacific Ocean from Alaska down to Washington.
The Lion’s Mane Jellyfish uses its stinging tentacles to capture their prey. Their diet consists of animals such as fish, zooplankton, and even smaller jellyfish.
They prefer to swim near the surface, usually no deeper than 66ft (20m) from the top.
Lion’s mane jellyfish prefer to swim solo, but following a storm, they have been seen in large groups. They have been known to travel long distances when strong currents provide these constant swimmers the proper movement.
These Giant Jellies belong to the Genus Cyanea, of the family Cyaneidae. There are about 20 known species in this family.
There doesn’t seem to be any concern as to their wildlife status.
