Upside-Down Jellyfish (Cassiopea sp.)
Max Size: 8 inches
Diet: Carnivore, Filter Feeder
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: No
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
The Upside Down Jellyfish, known as the Cassiopeia Jellyfish, earns its name due to its unique habit of resting its flattened bell on the ocean floor. It elegantly extends its delicate, fringed tentacles upwards into the water column, where they capture planktonic organisms and also harness light for the benefit of photosynthetic algae residing within its body.
To create an optimal habitat for this fascinating creature, it's essential to provide a spacious sandy bottom in the aquarium and ensure high-intensity lighting for effective photosynthesis. The Upside Down Jellyfish is quite sensitive, and it cannot tolerate the presence of copper or high nitrates in the water. Given that a significant portion of its body consists of water (approximately 95 to 98%), sudden fluctuations in salinity or pH levels can have drastic effects on its well-being.
While its sting is generally mild and rarely perceptible to humans, it's advisable to exercise caution when handling or maintaining the aquarium.
Keeping this species healthy requires daily supplementation with suitable zooplankton substitutes.
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