Genus Eupilema Rank Species | Subphylum Medusozoa Order Rhizostomae | |
 | ||
Similar Rhizostomae, Rhopilema verrilli, Cephea, Netrostoma, Catostylidae | ||
The root mouthed jellyfish (Eupilema inexpectata) is a species of cnidarian, a jellyfish in the small family Rhizostomatidae. It is the only member of its genus.
Contents
Description
This large jellyfish grows up to more than 1m in diameter. It has a smooth-surfaced bell with no tentacles. Its large manubrium (mouth) has many microscopic holes which extend directly into the gut.
Distribution
This jellyfish is found around the whole South African coast from the surface to at least 35m underwater.
Ecology
This is a large jellyfish which feeds on microscopic prey. It is often seen with small fish, which use its bulk to hide from predators.
References
Eupilema inexpectata Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA