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Jellyfish are members of the phylum Cnidaria, and they are a type of invertebrate that is characterized by its umbrella-gelatinous-shaped body and long tentacles. They are found in all oceans, from shallow to deep waters and are some of the oldest creatures on earth, having been around for millions of years.
They are not fish, they have a simple structure and do not have any bones or gills, but rather a gastrovascular cavity that helps them move and digest food. Their bodies are made up of a jelly-like substance, making them soft and translucent, and they can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes.
They are propelled by contracting their bell-shaped bodies, which help them move through the water. They also have the ability to contract and expand their bodies to adjust their buoyancy, allowing them to move up and down in the water column.
Reproduction
Additionally, they can reproduce both sexually and asexually. The female jellyfish will eject eggs and sperm into the water, which then fertilize and form embryos that eventually grow into new jellyfish. They are also capable of regenerating lost body parts and can survive in temperatures ranging from the freezing point to hot tropical waters.
Lifetime
They have adapted to survive in a wide range of environments and can live for up to 5 years. In some cases, some species can live for even longer. Jellyfish are known for their remarkable lifespans, especially considering their size. The average lifetime of a jellyfish is between 2 and 5 years.
Hunting
Jellyfish can paralyze their prey with their tentacles and stingers, which contain venom that is used for self-defense. They use their tentacles to catch small fish, plankton, and other marine organisms and can feed on a variety of items. Moreover, they have a very fast digestion process, which allows them to quickly obtain nutrients from their prey.
Can jellyfish harm human beings?
Yes, some species of jellyfish have venomous stings that can be deadly and even result in death. The box jellyfish is considered one of the most poisonous creatures in the world and its sting can cause paralysis, cardiac arrest, and even death within minutes. Other jellyfish such as the Portuguese man-of-war can cause serious skin irritations and allergies. The most jellyfish stings are not life-threatening and can be treated with simple first aid, however it is important to be aware of the risks associated with contact with jellyfish and to take precautions when entering their habitat.
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