Tima

Common Names

Tima species are often referred to as "jellyfish" or "sea jellies" due to their gelatinous bodies. More specific common names may vary depending on the species and region. For example, Tima formosa is sometimes called the "beautiful jellyfish."

Characteristics

Tima jellyfish are typically small, with bell diameters ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. Their bodies are transparent and often have a faint bluish or greenish hue. The bell is dome-shaped and has a distinct margin with a series of tentacles or filaments.

The most prominent features of Tima are its four oral arms, which are elongated and tentacle-like. These arms are used for capturing prey and bringing it to the mouth. Tima also has a ring of tentacles around the margin of the bell, which are used for stinging prey and for locomotion.

Environments

Tima jellyfish are found in coastal waters around the world, typically in shallow, inshore habitats. They are often associated with estuaries, bays, and harbors. Tima species can tolerate a wide range of salinities and temperatures.

Diet and Predators

Tima jellyfish are carnivorous and feed primarily on small zooplankton, including copepods, larvae, and other small invertebrates. They use their stinging tentacles to paralyze their prey before consuming it. Tima jellyfish are prey for larger fish, sea turtles, and other marine predators.

Reproduction

Tima jellyfish reproduce sexually. They release sperm and eggs into the water, where fertilization occurs. The fertilized eggs develop into planulae, which are free-swimming larvae. Planulae eventually settle on the seabed and transform into polyps. Polyps are small, sedentary organisms that produce new jellyfish through a process called budding.

References

For more information about Tima, refer to the following references:

• World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS)
• PubMed
• Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom