by Deepstaria looks like a cross between a ghost emoji and a floating plastic bag, but don’t be tempted to underestimate this shape-shifting jellyfish: it’s among the largest and strangest invertebrate predators of the deep sea.
Jellyfish typically have spindly tentacles with a relatively small bell – yet Deepstaria is the opposite, featuring very small tentacles and a large bell that stretches like a parachute.
The extensive bell of Deepstaria features a distinct geometric mesh pattern, which are the channels of its gastrovascular system that deliver nutrients around its body.
The jellies live in the bathypelagic region of the world's oceans at depths ranging from 600 to 1,750 meters (1,968 to 5,741 feet).
This part of the ocean is known as the midnight zone because it has little to no natural light and features cold, salty water that hovers around 4°C (39°F).
Researchers noted that a resident red isopod was living inside the blanket-like bell.
It’s uncertain whether this relationship is symbiotic (as in, both parties are benefiting from the alliance) or parasitic (a one-sided friendship that only benefits the isopod).
Source
Jellyfish typically have spindly tentacles with a relatively small bell – yet Deepstaria is the opposite, featuring very small tentacles and a large bell that stretches like a parachute.
The extensive bell of Deepstaria features a distinct geometric mesh pattern, which are the channels of its gastrovascular system that deliver nutrients around its body.
The jellies live in the bathypelagic region of the world's oceans at depths ranging from 600 to 1,750 meters (1,968 to 5,741 feet).
This part of the ocean is known as the midnight zone because it has little to no natural light and features cold, salty water that hovers around 4°C (39°F).
Researchers noted that a resident red isopod was living inside the blanket-like bell.
It’s uncertain whether this relationship is symbiotic (as in, both parties are benefiting from the alliance) or parasitic (a one-sided friendship that only benefits the isopod).
Source
