Chrysaora_hysoscella
Chrysaora hysoscella
Species of jellyfish
Chrysaora hysoscella, the compass jellyfish,[1] is a common species of jellyfish that inhabits coastal waters in temperate regions of the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, including the North Sea and Mediterranean Sea.[2] In the past it was also recorded in the southeastern Atlantic, including South Africa, but this was caused by confusion with close relatives; C. africana, C. fulgida and an undescribed species tentatively referred to as "C. agulhensis".[2][3][4][5]
This article needs to be updated. The reason given is: much of it relies on outdated taxonomy where southeast Atlantic records were attributed to Chrysaora hysoscella. These are now attributed to other species, as described in first part of lead. This means that all info based on citations using studies in e.g. Namibia and South Africa needs to be moved or at least rewritten to reflect that it is about other, close relatives. (June 2019) |
It is a true jellyfish displaying radial symmetry with distinct brown markings shaped like elongated V's on its bell.[6] C. hysoscella adults are highly susceptible to the parasite Hyperia medusarum, but this has had no significant effects on the population.[7] This organism has a benthic polyp stage before developing into a pelagic adult medusae.[6] Compass jellyfish consume a variety of marine invertebrates and plankton and are preyed on by very few.[8] C. hysoscella contribute to the global issue of jellyfish overpopulation which is concerning to humans for various reasons including recreational interference, economic turmoil for fishing communities, and depleted fish resources.[9]