Jellyfish Ecology and Characteristics

Mackenzie Bubel, a jellyfish biologist at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, introduces jellyfish, explaining they are not fish but are related to corals and sea anemones. The video covers jellyfish habitats, their importance in the ecosystem, and why they wash up on beaches. It concludes with an invitation to learn more on the aquarium's website.

What is a unique characteristic of jellyfish compared to fish?

• They lack a heart.

• They have scales.

• They have a brain.

• They have bones.

What is another acceptable term for jellyfish?

• Coral fish

• Ocean fish

• Jellies

• Sea fish

Where can jellyfish be found?

• Only in saltwater oceans

• Only in freshwater lakes

• In both freshwater and saltwater

• Only in deep ocean trenches

Why are jellyfish considered important in the ocean ecosystem?

• They build coral reefs.

• They clean the ocean floor.

• They are a key food source for many marine animals.

• They produce oxygen.

Which of the following animals is known to eat jellyfish?

• Sharks

• Whales

• Dolphins

• Sea turtles

What role do jellyfish play for small growing fishes?

• They provide food.

• They offer protection.

• They clean their habitat.

• They help them find mates.

How do jellyfish contribute to controlling plankton populations?

• By eating them

• By providing them shelter

• By competing for food

• By scaring them away

Why might jellyfish end up on beaches?

• They are washed ashore by strong winds and waves.

• They migrate there to lay eggs.

• They are attracted to the sand.

• They are looking for food.

What should you do if you find a jellyfish on the beach?

• Bury it in the sand.

• Throw it back into the ocean.

• Take it home as a pet.

• Leave it there to evaporate.

Where can you learn more about jellyfish?

• Read a book about fish.

• Watch a documentary on TV.

• Check out montereybayaquarium.org.

• Visit a local library.