News Summary
A breathtaking bloom of moon jellies was observed in Newport Harbor, captivating onlookers and raising interest among marine experts. These translucent jellyfish congregate in large numbers due to currents and tides, creating a stunning spectacle in coastal waters. While the bloom offers an exciting visual display, it also serves as an opportunity for educational experiences about marine ecosystems, as moon jellies are known for their unique biology and life cycle.
Newport Beach – A breathtaking bloom of moon jellies was spotted in Newport Harbor on Wednesday, August 20, creating a stunning spectacle for onlookers. Passengers aboard a nearby Duffy boat were among the first to notice the hundreds of jellyfish floating gracefully on the water’s surface.
The sight of these moon jellies, characterized by their translucent bodies and the distinct half-circle in the middle of their bell, captivated many. The bloom, which covered a significant portion of the harbor, raised interest among marine experts and beachgoers alike.
Jessica Brasher, director of husbandry at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, provided insight into the phenomenon, noting that adult moon jellies often congregate in large numbers in coastal waters, particularly in harbors. Their unique life cycle and reliance on plankton as a primary food source make them more susceptible to being drawn into bays and harbors by ocean currents and tides. This movement is common, as moon jellies are not strong swimmers and depend on the water conditions to navigate their environment.
Before reaching their adult form, moon jellies exist as tiny polyps that attach themselves to rocks, piers, and boats in the water. Under favorable conditions, these polyps can release juvenile jellies, known as ephyrae, which eventually develop into adults. The recent bloom in Newport Harbor was particularly noteworthy, as previous reports indicated a similar but less dense bloom in 2021.
Although moon jellies possess stinging cells called nematocysts to capture their food, primarily consisting of zooplankton, their sting is generally not harmful to humans. Though skin irritation may occur in sensitive individuals, it is typically mild and can be treated by submerging the affected area in hot water for approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
Composed of about 95% water, moon jellies can be found in oceans around the globe. Despite lacking a brain, eyes, or heart, they exhibit basic sensory functions, such as the abilities to smell, taste, and differentiate between light and dark.
The bloom of moon jellies is not only a visual delight but also offers an opportunity for educational experiences. The Aquarium of the Pacific features a Moon Jelly Touch Tank, which allows visitors to engage with these remarkable creatures, fostering a deeper understanding of their biology and importance in marine ecosystems.
In summary, the recent bloom of moon jellies in Newport Harbor serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of marine life and the intricate relationships within ocean environments. As ocean conditions fluctuate, such occurrences may become more frequent, providing both a captivating spectacle and an invitation to learn more about these fascinating gelatinous animals.
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Additional Resources
- Mercury News: Moon Jellies in Newport Beach
- Wikipedia: Jellyfish
- ABC7: Jellyfish-like Blobs Spotted
- Google Search: Moon Jellies
- OC Register: Trash Cleanup in Newport Harbor
- Google Scholar: Marine Ecosystems
- LA Times: Blue Things on Californian Beaches
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jellyfish
- FOX19: Newport Aquarium Exhibit
- Google News: Jellyfish
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
