The species Aurelia labiata is a type of jellyfish that belongs to the group of cnidarians, in the family Ulmaridae. Its common name is moon jellyfish, due to the rounded and translucent shape of its bell, reminiscent of the satellite. Unlike other jellyfishes, it does not have long, dangling tentacles, but rather a thin fringe around the edge of the bell and four oral arms extending from the base of the manubrium, the central organ containing the mouth and stomach. The bell has 16 recesses corresponding to the 16 sensory organs called ropalia, which allow it to perceive light, movement and balance. The bell can measure from 10 to 45 centimeters in diameter, and is usually milky white, sometimes with pink, purple, peach or blue shades.
The distribution of the species Aurelia labiata involves the coastal regions of the Pacific Ocean, from San Diego, California, to the Gulf of Alaska. It is a pelagic species, living in open waters, but is also found in bays and harbors, where it is more abundant. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -6ºC to 31ºC. It feeds mainly on plankton, small crustaceans and fish larvae, which it captures with its stinging cells and brings to its mouth with its oral arms. It can also absorb nutrients directly from the water through its epidermis. Aurelia labiata has adaptive behaviors that include directional and vertical swimming. Directional swimming helps it escape predators, approach a food source, or pass through turbulence. Vertical swimming allows it to avoid rocky walls and low salinity. These behaviors are based on its sensory receptors and diffuse nervous system, which give it greater mobility for survival.
The life cycle of Aurelia labiata is complex, alternating between two phases: the sexual or jellyfish phase and the asexual or polyp phase. jellyfishes are dioecious, i.e. there are male and female individuals that produce gametes (sperm and eggs) in their gonads located in the manubrium. The gametes are released into the water and external fertilization occurs. The zygote develops into a ciliated larva called a planula, which attaches to the substrate and transforms into a cylindrical polyp with tentacles. The polyp reproduces asexually by gemmation or strobilation, giving rise to small jellyfish called ephirae, which separate from the polyp and grow to sexual maturity.
Aurelia labiata is considered an important species for the marine ecosystem, as it is part of the food chain and contributes to the flow of energy and matter. It also has a positive economic value for humans, as it is a tourist attraction in aquariums and marine museums. However, it can also have a negative impact, as it can cause irritation with its stings or compete with other species for food.
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