Stomolophus meleagris

12cm
0-85m
62 sites
Stomolophidae
Imagine drifting through the clear blue, and suddenly encountering a pulsating cloud of jellyfish! That's the thrill of spotting a Cannonball Jelly (Stomolophus meleagris). These gelatinous globes, typically around 12cm but occasionally growing larger, are a common sight for divers and snorkellers in warmer waters. While they might look intimidating, Cannonball Jellies are generally harmless to humans. Their smooth, round bell and distinctive brown or yellowish hue make them easily recognizable. Often found in large aggregations, these jellies drift with the currents, creating mesmerizing underwater spectacles. Seeing hundreds, or even thousands, of these jellies together is an unforgettable experience. They thrive in the open ocean, but often drift into coastal areas, making them accessible to divers of all levels. Keep an eye out in the Eastern Pacific, North Atlantic, and Caribbean, where they're most commonly seen.
Cannonball Jellies are characterized by their firm, round, cannonball-like shape, giving them their name. They are typically a milky white or translucent colour with a distinctive brown or yellowish band around the bell. Unlike many jellyfish, they lack long, trailing tentacles, instead having short, stubby oral arms underneath. Their smooth, almost featureless appearance and relatively small size (compared to other large jellyfish) helps distinguish them.
4 sites