The Stalked Jellyfish, Kaleidoscope Jellyfish – Haliclystus auricula is a captivating hydrozoan species renowned for its unique appearance and intriguing life cycle. Its captivating presence in coastal waters has fascinated marine biologists and enthusiasts alike, prompting further investigation into its ecological role and remarkable adaptations.
Description & Characteristics
Haliclystus auricula exhibits a striking and distinctive morphology that sets it apart from other jellyfish. Its name, “Stalked Jellyfish,” aptly describes its characteristic feature: a stalk that connects the bell-shaped body to the substrate. This stalk allows the jellyfish to anchor itself to rocks, algae, or other submerged surfaces, providing stability in turbulent waters.
The bell of the Haliclystus auricula, measuring up to 2 cm in diameter, is adorned with a mesmerizing array of tentacles, earning it the moniker “Kaleidoscope Jellyfish.” These tentacles are arranged in a spiral pattern around the periphery of the bell, resembling the intricate patterns found in a kaleidoscope. They are armed with stinging nematocysts that aid in capturing prey.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Stalked Jellyfish, Kaleidoscope Jellyfish – Haliclystus auricula is commonly found in the intertidal zone, particularly in rocky shores and sheltered inlets. It thrives in temperate marine environments, with its distribution extending from the North Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. This species is often found in shallow waters, typically inhabiting depths ranging from the surface to around 20 meters. The presence of Haliclystus auricula in the intertidal zone suggests its ability to withstand fluctuating environmental conditions, including exposure to air during low tides.
Taxonomy
The species Haliclystus auricula belongs to the Class: Staurozoa, Order: Stauromedusae, and Family: Haliclystidae. This classification reflects its unique evolutionary history and the distinctive traits it shares with other members of the Staurozoa class, including a polyp-like stage that is attached to the substrate.
Feeding
Haliclystus auricula is a carnivore, feeding primarily on a variety of small invertebrates, including copepods, amphipods, isopods, ostracodes (seed shrimps), and mysids. Its diet also includes fish larvae, snails, and zooplankton. The jellyfish uses its stinging tentacles to capture prey, paralyzing them with nematocysts before consuming them.
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