Atlantic sea nettle (Chrysaora quinquecirrha)
The Atlantic sea nettle occurs along the eastern coast of the United States, from New England to Florida, Gulf of Mexico and into the Caribbean. This jelly is frequently found swimming along the surface waters in bays, lagoons, estuaries and in the open ocean. The Atlantic sea nettle has a white dome –shaped body with long tentacles that are used to sting and capture prey. These tentacles transport the prey into its digestive pouches located underneath its body. Look for the Atlantic sea nettle in the Tropical Diver gallery.
Fun Facts
- This nettle is categorized as “mildly toxic”. Contact with its tentacles will result in skin irritation.
- The Atlantic sea nettle is most abundant during the summer months.
- The natural predators of this sea nettle are sea turtles and some fish species.
- Daily during the summer months the male and female Atlantic sea nettles release sperm and eggs separately into the water.
- Sea nettles are made of mostly salt water and other organic materials.




