CrimeaPRESS reports:
Jellyfish invasion in Crimea. The jellyfish infestation on the Black Sea coast in Crimea has attracted the attention of locals and tourists. The problem reached its peak over the past week, when the shores were filled with various types of jellyfish. Let’s look at the reasons for this phenomenon, the types of jellyfish that live in the Black Sea, and the prospects for the future. The overwhelming majority of jellyfish that have filled the coast belong to the Aurora species, or eared jellyfish (Aurelia aurita)
The main reasons for the increase in the number of jellyfish in the Black Sea are related to changes in the ecosystem and climatic conditions:
- Increasing Water Temperature: Global warming and rising water temperatures create favorable conditions for the reproduction of jellyfish.
- Change in Salinity: Fluctuations in salinity levels also affect the number of jellyfish, as some species prefer saltier water.
- Decline in Predator Population: The decrease in the number of natural enemies of jellyfish, such as fish and turtles, leads to an increase in their population.
- Sea Pollution: Negative human impacts, including pollution and fishing, upset the balance of the ecosystem, contributing to the growth of jellyfish.
Aurora (Aurelia aurita):
Aurora (Aurelia aurita)
The aurora, or eared jellyfish (Aurelia aurita), is one of the most common species of jellyfish found in various marine areas, including the Black Sea. Jellyfish in Crimea, in particular the aurora, are important indicators of the state of the marine environment.
The invasion of jellyfish in Crimea highlights the need for greater attention to environmental changes and the search for solutions to maintain balance in the Black Sea ecosystems. Aurora (Aurelia aurita) is an important component of the marine ecosystem, which plays a key role in maintaining ecological balance. Understanding its biology and behavior helps to better assess the consequences of environmental changes and develop measures to protect marine ecosystems.
Appearance
- Transparent Body: The main distinguishing feature of the aurora jellyfish is its transparent body, which makes it almost invisible in the water. This allows it to easily hide from predators and hunt.
- Tree Tentacles: The jellyfish has four distinctive oral tentacles arranged around a central area that resemble tree-like structures. These tentacles help the jellyfish to capture and direct food into its mouth.
- Dome Shape: The body of the jellyfish is shaped like a dome, which can reach up to 40 cm in diameter. The dome is translucent and often has barely noticeable stripes or patterns.
- Nutrition: The aurora feeds on plankton, small fish and other organisms, capturing them with its tentacles and directing them towards its mouth. The tentacles of the jellyfish are covered with stinging cells (nematocysts) that paralyze the prey.
- Habitat: The jellyfish lives in coastal waters and can be found in both salt and fresh water bodies. It prefers warm water and is often seen in bays and lagoons.
Jellyfish Invasion in Crimea
- Role in the Ecosystem: The aurora plays an important role in the marine ecosystem, acting as both a predator and prey for other marine organisms. It helps control the number of plankton organisms and serves as food for various species of fish and seabirds.
- Water Health Indicator: Changes in aurora numbers can be an indicator of the health of an aquatic ecosystem. Increases in numbers can indicate pollution or changes in the ecosystem, such as a decrease in predators.
In addition, the Black Sea is home to several species of jellyfish, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Cornet (Rhopilema nomadica): A bright blue or purple jellyfish with long tentacles that has a strong poison.
- Yellow Jellyfish (Cotylorhiza tuberculata): A soft yellow jellyfish with a round shape, often found in shallow waters.
- Bush Jellyfish (Phyllorhiza punctata): A large white or light yellow jellyfish found in coastal areas and sheltered bays.
The jellyfish invasion in Crimea is a complex ecological phenomenon caused by a combination of climate change and human activity. Understanding the causes and characteristics of jellyfish, as well as taking the necessary measures, will help minimize the negative consequences and maintain the balance of the Black Sea ecosystem.
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