The moon jellyfish is generally translucent, but its color can vary and take on a slightly bluish or pinkish hue depending on its age and diet.
Geographic range
The moon jellyfish is a common species found in temperate and tropical coastal waters of seas and oceans around the world. It is particularly found in the coastal waters of Northern Europe, the Caribbean sea, and the Red sea.
Habitat
Like all jellyfish, the moon jellyfish drifts with the currents and can be found along coastlines.
Diet
The moon jellyfish primarily feeds on small planktonic organisms and fish larvae, which it captures with its tentacles as it drifts with the currents.
The moon jellyfish has different forms of reproduction that include various developmental stages, such as larval planktonic forms and polyps, before taking its adult jellyfish form.
It can reproduce sexually by releasing male gametes into the seawater, which then fertilize the gametes still held by the female jellyfish. The fertilized eggs remain attached under the bell of the female jellyfish and develop into planktonic larvae.
Did you know ?
The moon jellyfish is capable of producing a faint bioluminescent glow in the dark. This bioluminescence is due to the presence of specific proteins in its jelly, allowing it to attract prey or defend itself against predators.
The moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita)
Due to climate change, jellyfish blooms, which are proliferations of jellyfish, occur regularly in certain regions of the world, and the moon jellyfish is one of the species responsible for these blooms, particularly in Northern Europe, where it is widespread.
Discover also
Big siphonophore (Forskalia edwardsii)
Magnificent sea anemone (Radianthus magnifica)
Plumose sea anemone (Metridium senile)
Purple-striped jelly (Pelagia noctiluca)
Sea nettle (Chrysaora fuscescens)
Slimy sea plume (Antillogorgia americana)
Staghorn coral (Acropora cervicornis)
White spotted jellyfish (Phyllorhiza punctata)
The marine species from Mediterranean sea
Common octopus (Octopus vulgaris)
Damselfish (Chromis chromis)
Forkbeard (Phycis phycis)
Green spoon worm (Bonellia viridis)
Marine peacock's tail (Padina pavonica)
Purple gorgonian (Paramuricea clavata)
Stony sea urchin (Paracentrotus lividus)
Warty crab (Eriphia verrucosa)
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.
