Species · GBIF taxon 2264558
Cannonball Jellyfish
Stomolophus meleagrisAlso known as Cabbagehead Jellyfish, Cabbagehead
These rigid, dome-shaped jellies are exceptionally strong swimmers, using a powerful muscular bell and a dense cluster of oral arms to propel themselves through coastal waters. They play a vital role in marine ecosystems by hosting juvenile fish and crabs that seek shelter inside their bells. During late summer, massive swarms often drift into estuaries, providing a critical food source for sea turtles.
MarineSwarmingCoastal
Licensed referenceCape Hatteras National Seashore / Public domain · cc0
- diet
- Plankton, mollusk larvae, and tiny crustaceans
- family
- Stomolophidae
- threats
- Commercial harvesting, marine pollution, and climate change
- life Span
- 3 to 6 months
NE
Delivers a mild sting that can cause minor skin irritation; avoid touching washed-up specimens.
Possesses mild toxins in its nematocysts that can cause minor skin irritation, redness, or localized burning.
Do not touch live or dead specimens on the beach, and wash any affected skin with vinegar if stung.- Observe from above: Watch them pulse near the surface of estuaries and coastal bays during warm months.
- Look for companions: Peer closely to spot juvenile fish swimming safely inside the dome-shaped bell.
- Handle with care: Avoid touching washed-up bells on the beach, as nematocysts can still fire.