Often confused with the larger but similarly shaped Lions Mane Jellyfish, the blue jellyfish can be colourless when young and develop a striking blue-purple bell as it matures.

Behaviour

This jellyfish is attracted inshore by blooms of plankton that provide a plentiful source of food during summer and autumn, using their long stinging tentacles to capture their prey.

Size

Up to 30 cm diameter

Status

Common

Distribution

This species can be see all around the UK coastline during summer and autumn.

When to see

Between May and October

Facts

• A group of jellyfish is known as a “smack”, but is more commonly referred to as a “bloom”.