Site navigation

ANIMAL SPECIES:Lion's Mane Jellyfish

Add comment Add tags

The Lion's Mane Jellyfish can grow to be one of the largest of all jellyfishes.

Identification

The Lion's Mane Jellyfish's disc-shaped bell can be over 1 m across and its trailing tentacles can reach more than 10 m in length. These tentacles are very fine and difficult to see.

Size range

Bell: 1 m across; tentacles up to 10 m

Distribution

The Lion's Mane Jellyfish is found in marine waters throughout Australia.

Habitat

The Lion's Mane Jellyfish lives in coastal waters and oceans.

Behaviour and adaptations

Other behaviours and adaptations

The tentacles can extend outwards in a fan-like trap through which only the smallest of animals can pass without being caught. Large individuals often have many small fish that live near the bell of the jellyfish and avoid the stinging tentacles. This gives the fish protection from predators, as few animals will approach a large Lion's Mane Jellyfish.

Living with us

Danger to humans and first aid

These jellyfish can deliver a painful sting and their fine tentacles are often difficult for swimmers to avoid. They are best given a wide berth. If stung, apply a cold pack to relieve the pain and seek medical attention if necessary.

Classification

Species:
capillata
Genus:
Cyanea
Family:
Cyaneidae
Order:
Semaeostomeae
Class:
Scyphozoa
Phylum:
Cnidaria
Kingdom:
Animalia

What does this mean?


Last Updated: 5 January 2010

Would you like to add a comment?

Sign up to add comments and find out more about the other benefits you can enjoy.

Forgotten your password?

Would you like to add a tag?

Sign up to add tags and find out more about the other benefits you can enjoy.

Forgotten your password?

Lion's Mane Jellyfish

Lion's Mane Jellyfish View full size
Dr Isobel Bennett © Australian Museum

Featured product

Australian Marine Life
 Australian Marine Life

Graham J. Edgar - Published by Reed New Holland 2008, (Hardcover)

Price: $75.95

Buy Online

Support us

Help us continue to provide quality research, education, community programs and exhibitions.

Donate now

Online Shop

Featuring a selection of products relating to the collections.

Australian Museum Members

Join today to come to the Museum for free and enjoy many other benefits.

AMBS

Australian Museum Business Services - Ecological, archaeological and heritage consulting.

Museum as a Venue

We have many unique venues ideal for dinner, cocktails, weddings and conferences.