They have a transparent mushroom-shaped bell. Its reproductive organs form a conspicuous clover-like shape when viewed from above. Numerous fine thread-like tentacles hang from beneath the edge of the bell.

The moon jelly is a favourite food of marine turtles.

Size

Up to 40 cm (bell diameter).

Field Guide

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  • Species Category: Marine
  • Species origin: Other
  • Conservation status: Common
  • What to Observe

    Search area for 30 minutes and record the following:

    • Abundant: found easily with little searching

    • Frequent: found with minimal searching

    • Rare: only 1 or 2 individuals found with intensive searching

    • Not found: not present during search

    Climate Adaptations

    Changing ocean currents and productivity, as a result of climate change, may lead to an increase in jelly fish abundance (which may result in detrimental impacts on fishing and coastal industries). In other locations, a change in conditions may result in a reduction of jelly fish numbers.

  • When and Where

    When To Look

    • Throughout the year

    Where To Look

    • Found throughout most of the world's oceans
    • In estuaries and harbours
  • What Else?

    Similar Species

    The Spotted Jelly (Phyllorhiza punctate) is similar in size, shape and transparency but can be distinguished by the presence of many small spots in its bell.

  • Trails: Bellarine Peninsula - Barwon Coast & Ocean Grove Nature Reserve VIC, Bournda EEC NSW, Cape Conran VIC, Marramarra NP NSW, Randwick Coastal Walkway NSW
  • Species Region: Australia