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Cyanea capillata is one of the biggest jellyfish to encounter and is commonly referred to as The Lion's mane jellyfish due to the highly distinguishable mass of long, thin, hair-like tentacles.
Cyanea capillata (The Lion’s Mane) has a saucer-shaped bell (the umbrella) with a uniform thickness then gradually thinning around the edges. Usually yellowish brown or reddish in colour. It generally grows to 30-50 cm in diameter in British waters. However, they have been know to grow up to 2 metres.
The margin of the bell houses hollow tentacles, these are arranged in groups of eight with seventy to one hundred and sixty or more fine cotton-like tentacles in each. The mouth and oral arms stem from a projection on the underside of the umbrella (the manubrium). The oral arms are thick, frilled, and generally as long as it’s umbrella’s diameter.
Encounters with young Lion’s Mane have been recorded as early as February in British waters, although the main period of abundance for the larger individuals is June to September. This species does occasionally occur in large swarms, largely brought on by bad weather and rough seas. They have a very severe sting that can produce blisters, irritation, and muscular cramp and may even affect respiratory and heart function. Cyanea capillata can still sting long after being stranded on the beach. Vinegar is again useful to treat the effected area. |
