Cubozoa
Cubozoa, commonly known as box jellyfish, are a class of cnidarians that are distinguished by their cube-shaped medusae. They are closely related to scyphozoans (true jellyfish) and are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. These marine animals are known for their potent venom, which can be fatal to humans.
Characteristics
Cubozoans possess several distinct characteristics that differentiate them from other cnidarians. These include:
- Cube-shaped bell: The most recognizable feature of cubozoans is their bell, which is shaped like a cube or box. This shape allows for more efficient swimming than the dome-shaped bells of true jellyfish.
- Tentacles: Cubozoans have four tentacles, each of which can be several meters long and covered with stinging cells called nematocysts.
- Eyes: Unlike most cnidarians, cubozoans have complex eyes that are located in rhopalia, clusters of sensory structures located on the bell margin. These eyes can detect light, movement, and even color.
- Velum: A shelf-like structure called the velum is present at the base of the bell, which helps to increase swimming efficiency.
- Polymorphism: Cubozoans exhibit polymorphism, meaning they have different body forms during their life cycle. These include the polyp stage, which is attached to a substrate, and the medusa stage, which is free-swimming.
Environment
Cubozoans are found in a variety of marine environments, including coastal waters, estuaries, and open oceans. They prefer warm, tropical and subtropical waters, with some species inhabiting both shallow and deep-water habitats. The distribution of cubozoans varies depending on the species, with some species being more widely distributed than others.
References
For further information on cubozoans, you can refer to the following reliable resources: