The Fried Egg Jellyfish,egg-yolk Jellyfish, scientifically known as Phacellophora camtschatica, is a fascinating and distinctive species of jellyfish. This name derives from its appearance, with a prominent, round, yellow bell resembling a fried egg. The bell can reach a substantial size, making it a noticeable presence in its marine habitat.
Description & Characteristics
The Phacellophora camtschatica is characterized by its large, round, and somewhat flattened bell, which can grow up to 60 centimeters (24 inches) in diameter. The bell’s outer surface is typically a translucent, pale brown or yellowish color, giving rise to its common names. The bell has a distinctive ring of short, thick tentacles around its perimeter, which are usually yellow or orange in color. Beneath the bell, the Phacellophora camtschatica possesses long, trailing tentacles that can extend up to 15 meters (49 feet) in length. These tentacles are covered in stinging nematocysts, which are specialized cells that deliver venom for paralyzing prey.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Fried Egg Jellyfish,egg-yolk Jellyfish is a common inhabitant of the open ocean, particularly in warmer waters. It is typically found in the epipelagic zone, which is the uppermost layer of the ocean, extending from the surface down to approximately 200 meters (656 feet). The Phacellophora camtschatica enjoys a wide distribution, ranging from the Pacific coast of North America to the coast of Japan. This species can also be found in the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Indian Ocean, signifying its adaptability to various marine environments.
Taxonomy
The species Phacellophora camtschatica belongs to the Class: Scyphozoa, Order: Semaeostomeae, and Family: Phacellophoridae. Scyphozoa is a class of jellyfish that includes some of the most recognizable species, while Semaeostomeae is an order that characterizes jellyfish with a distinctive four-lobed bell. The family Phacellophoridae encompasses a small group of jellyfish species that exhibit the characteristic prominent, round, yellow bell of the Phacellophora camtschatica.
Feeding
The Fried Egg Jellyfish,egg-yolk Jellyfish is a predatory organism, relying on its stinging tentacles to capture and subdue its prey. The Phacellophora camtschatica feeds primarily on small organisms such as jellyfish, plankton, and other invertebrates. The tentacles contain nematocysts, which are microscopic, barbed capsules that inject venom into prey. Once paralyzed, the prey is then transported to the mouth, located in the center of the bell, for digestion. This feeding strategy allows the Phacellophora camtschatica to thrive in its oceanic habitat.
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