Image for Chrysaora quinquecirrha

Chrysaora quinquecirrha

Chrysaora quinquecirrha, commonly known as the sea nettle, is a type of jellyfish found in the Atlantic Ocean and along the U.S. southeastern coast. It has a bell-shaped, translucent body with long, trailing tentacles that can sting. These stings are used to capture small fish and plankton for food. Sea nettles typically appear seasonally, often in large groups during warmer months, and can sometimes cause irritation or mild injuries to swimmers. Despite their sting, they play an important role in marine ecosystems by regulating populations of tiny marine creatures.