Sealife guideThe mediterranean jellyfishCotylorhiza tuberculata
Last updated on 09/18/2024 at 11:15 PM

The mediterranean jellyfish (Cotylorhiza tuberculata)
Taxonomy
- Common name: Mediterranean jellyfish, Fried egg jellyfish
- French name: Méduse oeuf au plat
- Spanish name: Medusa huevo frito
- Scientific name: Cotylorhiza tuberculata (Macri, 1778)
- Family name: Cepheidae
- Order name: Rhizostomeae
- Class name: The scyphozoans [Scyphozoa]
Description
The mediterranean jellyfish is called the fried egg jellyfish in french due to its striking resemblance to the dish of the same name ! It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful jellyfish in the Mediterranean sea.

The mediterranean jellyfish gets its french name, fried egg jellyfish, from its appearance which closely resembles the dish of the same name ! ©
Vilainecrevette |
Dreamstime.comThe size of the mediterranean jellyfish's bell is impressive with an egg-yolk yellow center and pale yellow surrounding it. Its tentacles are short with violet tips.
The mediterranean jellyfish is a medium-sized jellyfish, ranging from about 4 to 12 inches in diameter.
Geographic range
The mediterranean jellyfish is a common and endemic species in the Mediterranean sea. It is also commonly found in the Adriatic sea.
Habitat
Like all jellyfish, the mediterranean jellyfish is a pelagic species that drifts with the currents.
Diet
The mediterranean jellyfish feeds on plankton, small
crustaceans and fish larvae.
Did you know ?
The mediterranean jellyfish is considered one of the harmless jellyfish species in the Mediterranean sea, but caution is still advised for allergic individuals, as there have been reports of stings.
The mediterranean jellyfish often shelters small fish among its mildly stinging tentacles, offering them a safe refuge.
Discover also

Atlantic sea nettle
(Chrysaora quinquecirrha)

Common sea fan
(Gorgonia ventalina)

Elkhorn coral
(Acropora palmata)

Magnificent sea anemone
(Radianthus magnifica)

Purple-striped jelly
(Pelagia noctiluca)

Purple gorgonian
(Paramuricea clavata)

Sea nettle
(Chrysaora fuscescens)

White spotted jellyfish
(Phyllorhiza punctata)
The marine species from Mediterranean sea

Blotched picarel
(Spicara maena)

Dusky grouper
(Epinephelus marginatus)

European conger eel
(Conger conger)

Forkweed
(Dictyota dichotoma)

Light bulb sea squirt
(Clavelina lepadiformis)

Orange flatworm
(Yungia aurantiaca)

Red sea-squirt
(Halocynthia papillosa)

Yellow encrusting sea anemone
(Parazoanthus axinellae)
Our latestUpdates

Friday, January 30th 2026
The dugong
Discover the dugong, a gentle “sea cow” of tropical waters. Learn about its habitat, diet, reproduction, morphology, and the threats facing this unique marine mammal.

Friday, January 23rd 2026
Dolphins: ocean's smartest creatures
Discover dolphins, the ocean's geniuses: explore their intelligence, social behavior, sophisticated communication, species diversity and vital role in marine ecosystems.

Friday, January 9th 2026
Hvar island
Hvar, a jewel of the Adriatic, captivates with its turquoise waters, wild coves and fragrant lavender fields. Between medieval villages, lively ports, and lush hills, Hvar island offers the perfect mix of relaxation, culture and breathtaking landscapes. Ideal for sun, sea and authentic experiences.
Photo of the Day

Carangue à gros yeux
(Caranx sexfasciatus)