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Jellies In History
Ancient Depictions
The relationship between ancient people and jellyfish is not well documented due to the scarcity of historical records. However, it is likely that ancient people encountered jellyfish in their daily lives, especially if they lived near coastal areas.
Some ancient cultures, such as the Chinese, have a long history of using jellyfish for food. Jellyfish salad, for example, is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, and has been consumed for thousands of years (2a). In addition to being a food source, jellyfish may have also been used for medicinal purposes in ancient times, as they contain compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties (2b).
There are also some historical accounts of jellyfish being used in art and mythology. For example, the ancient Greeks believed that the jellyfish-like creature Medusa had the power to turn people to stone with her gaze. This mythological creature has been depicted in countless works of art over the centuries, and remains an iconic symbol to this day.
Gorgons and Jellyfish
In Greek mythology, the Gorgons were a trio of monstrous female creatures with hair made of living snakes, and the power to turn people to stone with their gaze. The most famous of the Gorgons was Medusa, who was said to have been a beautiful woman before she was cursed by Athena and transformed into a terrifying creature with a head full of snakes.
There is no direct connection between the Gorgons and jellyfish. However, some (1a) have suggested that the myth of the Gorgons may have been inspired by sightings of jellyfish in ancient Greece.
Jellyfish are known for their gelatinous, translucent bodies and long, flowing tentacles, which could be interpreted as resembling the writhing snakes that were said to make up the hair of the Gorgons. The stinging cells of jellyfish may also be reminiscent of the deadly power that the Gorgons were said to possess.
It is important to note, the connection between the Gorgons and jellyfish is speculative and not based on any concrete historical or mythological evidence. The myth of the Gorgons is a complex and multifaceted story that has been interpreted and reinterpreted by countless generations of storytellers, and its origins and influences are the subject of much debate among scholars.
Aristotle's Descriptions of Jellyfish
Aristotle wrote extensively about jellyfish in his book "Historia Animalium" (History of Animals), which was one of the earliest attempts at scientific classification of animals. In this book, Aristotle describes and categorizes a wide range of creatures, including many species of jellyfish.
Some of the specific things that Aristotle wrote about jellyfish include:
- Characteristics: Aristotle noted the characteristic features of jellyfish, including their gelatinous bodies, their tentacles, and their stinging cells.
- Classification: Aristotle classified jellyfish as "zoophytes" or "animal-plants" because of their resemblance to plants in some ways, such as their lack of a centralized nervous system. He also placed them in the category of "soft-bodied animals."
- Behavior: Aristotle observed the behavior of jellyfish, noting that they were able to move through the water by pulsing their bell-shaped bodies and propelling themselves with their tentacles. He also observed that jellyfish could sting prey or predators with their stinging cells.
- Reproduction: Aristotle observed the reproductive habits of jellyfish, noting that they were capable of both sexual and asexual reproduction.
Aristotle's work on jellyfish helped to establish them as important and fascinating creatures in the natural world. His observations and classifications helped to lay the foundation for the scientific study of jellyfish and other marine animals, which continue to be an important area of research to this day.
Jean-Baptiste Lamarck/The establishment of Jellyfish Biology
Jean-Baptiste Lamarck wrote about gelatinous masses in the ocean, which are often associated with jellyfish. In his 1816 work "Histoire naturelle des animaux sans vertèbres" (Natural History of Invertebrate Animals), Lamarck described a variety of gelatinous masses that he observed in the ocean, some of which were later identified as the egg masses of jellyfish.
Lamarck's descriptions of these gelatinous masses were detailed and precise, and he noted the differences in texture, color, and consistency between different types of masses. He also observed the behavior of some of these masses, noting that they were capable of contracting and expanding in response to changes in their environment.
Lamarck's work on gelatinous masses helped to establish the field of jellyfish biology and provided important insights into the behavior and life cycle of these fascinating creatures.
Japan's Kurage Creature
In the mystical realm of ancient Japan, a creature of ethereal beauty, the jellyfish, known as kurage, reigned. Its name, a poetic blend of “ocean” and “moon,” mirrored its celestial elegance. This tale, steeped in curiosity, unveils the metamorphosis of this creature.
Once, the kurage was a paragon of beauty, its form as round and radiant as the full moon. Yet, it was tainted by pride and arrogance. One day, it boasted about its ability to traverse the world. A monkey, upon hearing this, challenged the kurage to validate its claim.
Accepting the challenge, the kurage embarked on a journey of self-discovery. It swam across the vast, unending oceans, visited lands of diverse cultures, and explored places shrouded in mystery. As it journeyed, it encountered the harsh realities of the world. The once vibrant creature grew tired and weak, its beautiful form began to wither, and it lost its bones.
Finally, the kurage returned home, defeated and boneless. The monkey, upon seeing the transformed creature, mocked it, saying, “You’re just a spineless creature now!” The kurage, once a symbol of beauty and pride, had now become a boneless creature, a stark contrast to its former self.
Thus, the kurage lost its bones forever, a poignant reminder of its pride and the arduous journey it undertook. This tale serves as a timeless testament to why the jellyfish, the kurage, has no bones. It is a story of pride, transformation, and the consequences of one’s actions. It is the tale of the jellyfish’s journey, a journey that changed it forever.
Ogonshu
In an unofficial Japanese folk story there is a deity known as Ogonshu, often depicted as a jellyfish or a woman riding a jellyfish. This deity is believed to bring good fortune to fishermen and sailors.
Festivals
In Kagoshima city, Japan, there’s a unique natural phenomenon where hundreds of luminescent jellyfish gather in the Yojirougahama waterway from late summer to early autumn. This spectacle has become a popular attraction, with local diving businesses offering special snorkeling courses called “Kurage nights” (or “Jellyfish nights”) (3a).
Aboriginal Stories and History of Jellyfish in Australia
Jellyfish inhabiting Australia's coastal waters has had a significant cultural and historical connection to the Aboriginal people. The Aboriginal communities have lived in harmony with the land and sea for thousands of years, and their stories and traditions are deeply intertwined with the natural world.
Cultural Significance of Jellyfish
Jellyfish hold great cultural significance in many Aboriginal communities across Australia. They are often seen as important totems, representing different clans or family groups. Aboriginal people believe that each totem embodies unique characteristics and spiritual connections with the land and sea. The jellyfish's delicate and ethereal nature is associated with qualities such as adaptability, resilience, and transformation.
Dreamtime Stories
Dreamtime stories are central to Aboriginal culture, conveying important teachings, values, and beliefs. Several Dreamtime stories feature jellyfish as central characters, passing down wisdom and lessons from generation to generation. These stories often explain the origins of natural phenomena and teach respect for the environment.
One such story originates from the Yirrganydji people of Far North Queensland, who tell the tale of a curious young boy named Njarrindjeri. According to their legends, Njarrindjeri ventured into the sea against his elders' advice and encountered a massive jellyfish. The jellyfish taught him the importance of listening to his elders and respecting the boundaries set by his community. This story serves as a reminder of the significance of traditional knowledge and the consequences of ignoring it.
Spiritual Connections
For Aboriginal people, the relationship with the natural world goes beyond physical existence; it encompasses a spiritual connection. Jellyfish, with their ethereal movements and translucent bodies, are often associated with the spiritual realm. Aboriginal communities believe that these creatures hold the power to cleanse and purify the waters, ensuring the well-being of both the environment and the people.
Sustainable Practices
Aboriginal people have practiced sustainable fishing techniques for thousands of years, which includes a deep understanding of marine life, including jellyfish. Traditional knowledge and cultural practices have been passed down through oral traditions, ensuring that future generations maintain a respectful and sustainable approach towards these creatures.
Aboriginal fishing practices involve using specific nets and traps to catch jellyfish without harming them or the delicate ecosystem. These sustainable practices align with the Aboriginal philosophy of custodianship, emphasizing the importance of preserving the balance between humans and the natural world.
Contemporary Relevance
The stories and history of jellyfish in Aboriginal culture continue to be relevant today, especially as the impacts of climate change affect marine ecosystems. Rising sea temperatures and changing ocean currents have led to an increase in jellyfish populations in some regions. Aboriginal communities have observed and adapted to these changes over centuries, offering valuable insights for scientific research and conservation efforts.
Furthermore, Aboriginal communities play an active role in raising awareness about marine conservation. Through art, storytelling, and cultural events, they highlight the importance of preserving the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem and encourage sustainable practices for future generations.
Europeans and Jellyfish in 19th Century Australia
In the 1800s, Australia underwent significant changes with the arrival of European settlers. The interactions between these settlers and the abundant marine life, including jellyfish, played a noteworthy role in shaping Australia's history during that era. In this article, we will explore the encounters between Europeans and jellyfish in 19th century Australia, highlighting their impact on the environment, scientific discoveries, and cultural perceptions.
Marine Exploration and Scientific Discoveries
The arrival of Europeans in Australia brought about a wave of marine exploration and scientific discoveries. Naturalists and scientists, such as Sir Joseph Banks and William Saville-Kent, conducted extensive research on the country's flora and fauna, including jellyfish. Their studies aimed to document and classify the unique marine species found along the Australian coast, including various species of jellyfish.
Jellyfish as Curiosities
Jellyfish fascinated Europeans due to their unusual appearance and behavior. As new settlers arrived, encounters with jellyfish became common, especially during coastal expeditions and exploratory voyages. Europeans marveled at the gelatinous bodies and graceful movements of jellyfish, often considering them as curiosities or novelties of the natural world.
Stinging Encounters and Medical Advances
The increase in European coastal activities led to more frequent encounters with jellyfish, often resulting in painful stings. They experienced firsthand the effects of jellyfish stings and sought remedies to alleviate the discomfort. This necessity for medical intervention prompted advancements in understanding jellyfish toxins and the development of treatments for jellyfish stings.
Economic Impact
Jellyfish also had economic implications during the 19th century. Some species, such as the Blubber Jellyfish (Catostylus mosaicus), were targeted for their high-value byproducts. The blubber from these jellyfish was harvested for its potential use in producing glue and as a source of collagen for medicinal purposes. The economic value associated with jellyfish prompted European entrepreneurs to explore commercial opportunities in harvesting and processing jellyfish.
Cultural Perceptions
The encounters with jellyfish in 19th century Australia influenced the cultural perceptions of these creatures among Europeans. Initially seen as curious and intriguing, jellyfish began to be viewed with caution and, at times, even fear due to their stinging abilities. European settlers, particularly those engaged in maritime activities, started considering jellyfish as potential threats to their safety and livelihoods.
Notes and References
(1a) it’s important to note that these discussions are more about the symbolism and interpretation of the Medusa myth rather than a direct comparison of Medusa and jellyfish in a biological or ecological context. The naming of jellyfish after Medusa is more of a metaphorical association rather than a topic of debate or controversy.
(2a) Omori, Makoto; Nakano, Eiji (2001). Jellyfish Fisheries in Southeast Asia. Hydrobiologia. pp. 19–26. ISBN 9789401007221.
(2b) It's important to note that the use of natural organisms for medicinal purposes is a common practice in many ancient cultures, and the use of jellyfish in this context is likely part of a broader tradition of using marine organisms for health and healing.
(3a) Emma Taggart on November 20, 2021, Japanese Waterway Is the Night-Time Hang Out Spot for Hundreds of Luminescent Jellyfish. Japanese Waterway Is Home to Hundreds of Luminescent Jellyfish (mymodernmet.com)
