Types of Jellies

Jellies That sting

Deadliest Jellies

The "deadliest" jellyfish is a matter of perspective and can vary depending on the circumstances, but some species are known to be particularly dangerous to humans due to their potent venom.

Box Jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri): This species is considered one of the most venomous creatures in the world and is found primarily in the waters of the western Pacific Ocean, including northern Australia, the Philippines, and Thailand. Its tentacles contain powerful toxins that can cause cardiac arrest, paralysis, and death.
Irukandji Jellyfish (Carukia barnesi): This species is native to the waters of northern Australia and the Pacific Islands and is considered one of the most venomous jellyfish in the world. Its venom can cause a severe and potentially life-threatening condition known as Irukandji syndrome, which can cause extreme pain, nausea, vomiting, and high blood pressure.
Sea Wasp (Chironex yamaguchii): This species is a type of box jellyfish and is found in the waters of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines and Thailand. Its tentacles contain potent toxins that can cause cardiac arrest and death within a matter of minutes.
Portuguese Man o' War (Physalia physalis): This jellyfish is not a true jellyfish, but a colony of individual organisms that work together. It is found in the waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans and is known for its long, stinging tentacles that can cause a painful and sometimes dangerous sting.

It is important to note that not all jellyfish stings are dangerous, and the severity of a sting can depend on a number of factors, including the species of jellyfish, the size and location of the sting, and the individual's susceptibility to the venom. However, it is always advisable to seek medical attention if you are stung by a jellyfish, especially if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or significant swelling.

Jellies that don't sting

Harmless Jellies

Harmless jellyfish can be found in many oceans and bodies of water around the world. Some species have a wide distribution and can be found in multiple regions, while others are more restricted in their range.

Moon Jellyfish (Aurelia aurita): This species is widely distributed in the world's oceans and can be found in temperate and tropical waters, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
Upside-Down Jellyfish (Cassiopea xamachana): This species is found in the waters of the Caribbean, including the Gulf of Mexico and the western Atlantic Ocean.
Spotted Jellyfish (Mastigias papua): This species is found in the waters of the Pacific Ocean, including the Great Barrier Reef and the waters of Southeast Asia.
Crystal Jellyfish (Aequorea victoria): This species is found in the waters of the Pacific Ocean, including the coast of British Columbia and the waters of the Pacific Northwest.
Comb Jellyfish (Mnemiopsis leidyi): This species is found in the Atlantic Ocean and the Black Sea, and has also been introduced to other regions through human activities, including the Mediterranean Sea and the waters of the Pacific Northwest.

It is important to note that the distribution and range of jellyfish can vary depending on a number of factors, including water temperature, salinity, and the availability of food, so it is always best to check local conditions and guidelines before entering the water.

Jellies for human consumption

Culinary Jellies

Jellyfish are considered a delicacy in some parts of the world and are consumed by people as food. Some of the most commonly consumed jellyfish species include:

Nomura's Jellyfish (Nemopilema nomurai): This species is native to the waters of the Pacific Ocean and is widely consumed in China and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Aurelia Jellyfish (Aurelia aurita): This species is widely distributed in the world's oceans and is consumed in several countries, including Japan, South Korea, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Rhopilema esculentum: This species is found in the waters of the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, and is consumed in some parts of the Middle East and North Africa.
Stomolophus meleagris: This species is found in the waters of the Pacific Ocean and is consumed in some parts of Southeast Asia.

Jellyfish are typically processed, dried, and then rehydrated before they are consumed. They are often served as a side dish or used as an ingredient in salads, stir-fries, and other dishes. The texture of jellyfish is often described as crunchy and has a slightly salty flavor.

It is important to note that jellyfish should only be consumed if they have been properly prepared and processed, as some species may contain toxins that can be harmful to humans if they are consumed raw or inadequately prepared. Additionally, it is always best to check with local authorities and health experts before consuming any wild-caught jellyfish.

Worldwide, an estimated 321,000 metric tons of jellies are caught for food every year. Japan alone imports up to 10,000 tons of jellies annually, where they can sell for $10 to $12 per pound. Jellyfish for human consumption is a competitive business with trade secrets practiced by respected "jellyfish masters." Eating jellyfish can introduce aluminum into your diet from jellyfish contamination. Some consumer advocates have advised limiting the consumption of products made from jellies.

jellies in beauty products

Beautiful Jellies

Jellyfish collagen is sometimes used in beauty products as it is believed to have several potential skin benefits. Jellyfish collagen is a type of protein found in the tentacles of jellyfish, and it is prized for its potential to hydrate and revitalize the skin.

Some of the benefits that people associate with jellyfish collagen in beauty products include:

Hydration: Jellyfish collagen is believed to help hydrate the skin, making it look and feel more moisturized and refreshed.
Anti-Aging: Some people believe that jellyfish collagen may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, helping to keep the skin looking youthful and radiant.
Brightening: Jellyfish collagen is also believed to help brighten the skin, making it look more radiant and even-toned.
Firming: Some people believe that jellyfish collagen may help firm and tighten the skin, giving it a more youthful and lifted appearance.

Jellyfish collagen is often used in skincare products such as creams, serums, masks, and more. It is important to note that the effectiveness of jellyfish collagen in beauty products may vary depending on the individual and the specific product being used. Additionally, it is always best to check with a skincare professional or dermatologist before using any new beauty product, especially if you have sensitive skin or a skin condition.

Jellyfish Types, Resouces and Descriptions