The jellyfish with a lion’s mane comes back to the Aquarium exhibit
Lion’s mane jellyfish (Cyanea capillata) are known for their fascinating beauty. They are “local residents” and have been brought to our Aquarium from the nearest bay of Russkiy Island.
This species can be found practically in any place of the world, even in Arctic waters. But you’ll hardly ever come across it in warm seas; this jellyfish feels comfortable when the water temperature is +17℃ or lower.
The lion’s mane is considered a giant jelly – its tentacles can grow to 35 meters long and its bell can reach 2.5 meters in diameter. Its size and colour depend on the water temperature and the food: the lower the temperature is, the larger and brighter a specimen becomes, and the more the lion’s mane eats, the quicker it grows.
“Lion’s mane jellyfish get their bright wine-red color from tiny crustaceans they feed on. If their diet is krill-free, the colour will gradually fade and they will turn pale yellow”, says Marat Khaidarov, our Aquarium specialist.