Mauve Stinger

Pelagia noctiluca, commonly known as the mauve stinger, is a species of jellyfish within the family Pelagiidae and the sole currently recognized species in the genus Pelagia. This marine organism is noted for its bioluminescent properties, derived from the Greek "pelagia" meaning "of the sea" and the Latin "noctiluca," combining "nox" (night) and "lux" (light). Its capability to emit light is a notable characteristic, especially when stimulated by water turbulence, making it visible in dark environments.

The distribution of Pelagia noctiluca spans worldwide tropical and warm temperate seas, predominantly documented in the North Atlantic region, including the Mediterranean Sea and the 🌊 Gulf of Mexico. Reports indicate its occasional presence in other regions such as the Pacific and 🌊 Indian Oceans and areas around 🇦🇺 Australia and 🇳🇿 New Zealand. However, it is postulated that these occurrences might represent a species complex, necessitating a comprehensive taxonomic review to clarify its classification. Indeed, substantial genetic differences have been observed between populations across different oceanic regions, leading to speculation that some may represent unrecognized species.

Pelagia noctiluca is a relatively small jellyfish with a bell diameter ranging from 3 to 12 centimeters, exhibiting a range of colors from mauve and purple to yellow. It is equipped with stinging cells over its tentacles and bell, which can result in painful stings to humans. Although generally not harmful in the long term, these stings can significantly impact local economies by deterring tourism and disrupting fishing activities, often as a result of large swarms.

An oceanic species, Pelagia noctiluca participates in diel vertical migrations, generally residing at depths of up to 150 meters but capable of reaching as deep as 1,400 meters. Environmental factors such as wind and currents can drive large swarms to coastal areas, where they may become stranded on beaches, sometimes in regions beyond their typical temperature range.

Anatomically, P. noctiluca features a radially symmetrical body with a single gastrovascular cavity serving both ingestion and excretion. It lacks structures such as a centralized nervous system, gaseous exchange, excretory, and circulatory systems. Instead, it relies on a basic nerve net and specialized cells called cnidae for various functions, including prey capture and defense. The reproductive system includes both male and female gonads, which are relatively similar, with differentiation mostly seen in follicle thickness.

Overall, Pelagia noctiluca plays a significant ecological and economic role, with its prevalence in large blooms and bioluminescent properties contributing to its status as one of the most studied jellyfish species.