Violet Jellyfish
(Mastigia sp.)
Mastigia Jellyfish are generally found in oceans worldwide, from coastal waters to open seas. They are often encountered in shallow coastal areas and can be found in both warm and cold water regions. Mastigia Jellyfish are primarily planktonic predators. They feed on small aquatic organisms, including plankton, small fish, and other tiny creatures suspended in the water. They use their tentacles, which are equipped with specialized cells called nematocysts, to capture their prey. It's essential to avoid using copper-based treatments in a tank with invertebrates, as it can harm them. Always follow the recommended guidelines for medication use in marine aquariums.
Mastigia Jellyfish are sometimes known as Violet Jellyfish. They are not commonly collected for the aquarium trade however cultured species are sometimes seen. Mastigias Jellyfish are often translucent or semi-transparent with a prominent, pigmented, and pulsating oral arm that appears red, orange, or pink. This pigmentation is due to the presence of symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae, which live in the jellyfish's tissues and provide color and energy through photosynthesis. They can grow up to 12".
Water conditions: Salinity 1.023 - 1.025 Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Hardness 8 - 12 dKH
- Care: Difficult
- Behavior: Social
- Diet: Frozen Food Live Food
- Habitat: Sand Flat
- Light: Medium