Lion's Mane Jelly

Scientific Name

Cyanea capillata

Distribution

The lion’s mane jellyfish is more common in colder northern oceans, but can be found in lower Chesapeake Bay during winter and early spring.

The Lion's Mane jellyfish has long tentacles and an orangish-brown cast. © Rob Condon.
Sting

The sting is moderately painful.

Size

The world's largest jellyfish, with a bell up to 6 feet wide and tentacles exceeding 100 feet, although it grows much smaller in Chesapeake Bay.

Color

Generally orangish-brown.

Distinguishing Features
  • Tentacles originate from under bell in 8 distinct clusters
  • Bell fairly flat with a smooth surface

< Moon Jelly

Mushroom Cap >