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Local name
Morska pluća
English name
Barrel jellyfish
Scientific name
Rhizostoma pulmo
Did you know?
Rhizostoma pulmo, commonly known as the barrel jellyfish is a scyphomedusa in the family Rhizostomatidae. It is found in the northeast Atlantic, and in the Adriatic, Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea and Sea of Azov. It is also known from the southern Atlantic off the western South African coast and into False Bay.They are found typically in late summer, and early fall in increased populations which are known as blooms. This is due to higher temperatures and other environmental factors such as wind. It is common in the Irish Sea. It typically is up to 40 cm in diameter, but can exceptionally reach 150 cm. Rhizostoma pulmo is moderately venomous but not as deadly as other species. Effects include a burning sensation on the skin, dermatitis, and ulcers which confirms it is toxic to humans. However, it does not pose a serious threat to humans. It is a favourite food of the leatherback turtle.