Pacific Sea Nettle

About

The Pacific sea nettle (Chrysaora fuscescens) is one of the most recognizable jellyfish along the western coast of North America, ranging from the warm coastal waters off Mexico all the way up to Alaska. In the wild it drifts through open water in massive seasonal blooms, trailing long, ribbon-like oral arms and tentacles that can extend several feet beyond its bell. The bell itself tends toward rich amber and golden-brown tones, which sets it apart from many other jellyfish species kept in the hobby. Keeping one, or a group, successfully is genuinely challenging and not something to take on lightly. These animals require a kreisel tank, a purpose-built circular or cylindrical aquarium with a gentle circular flow that keeps the jellies suspended without slamming them against walls or filtration intakes. A conventional rectangular aquarium simply does not work. They absolutely cannot be housed with fish or other invertebrates, both because their stinging cells pose a real threat and because tank mates can easily damage their delicate bells. Diet in captivity typically consists of live or frozen baby brine shrimp and similar small zooplankton. Their lifespan is naturally short, so even a well-kept specimen is usually a temporary resident. Rewarding for the dedicated keeper, but not a beginner project by any measure.