Mastigia sp.

Datasheet

General Description

The Violet Jellyfish, or Spotted Lagoon Jellyfish, is a captivating ornamental species known for its translucent body adorned with playful polka-dot markings. Its mesmerizing pulsating movement adds to its charm, especially when illuminated by color-changing LED lights. This jellyfish typically reaches around four inches in length but can grow larger, with a lifespan ranging from 3 to 6 months in the wild and potentially a year or more in captivity.

Aquarium Suitability

The Violet Jellyfish is best suited for expert aquarists due to its delicate nature and specific care requirements. It thrives in a dedicated jellyfish aquarium with gentle circular water flow, avoiding any sharp edges that could harm it. Air bubbles must be minimized to prevent complications. It's essential to maintain stable water parameters, especially concerning copper levels, as these jellyfish are highly sensitive.

Care and Hardiness

Given its fragility, the Violet Jellyfish demands meticulous care and a specialized environment. They require a marine jellyfish aquarium with curved or rounded corners, devoid of any decor that could injure them. Moderating copper levels and providing appropriate lighting, including full-spectrum T-5 fluorescent or powerful LEDs, is crucial for their well-being. Regular feeding of small meaty items like baby brine shrimp and marine food suitable for filter-feeding invertebrates is essential.

Reef Suitability

The Violet Jellyfish is not reef-compatible due to its unique care needs and sensitivity to water conditions that may not align with those of a traditional reef environment.

Aquarium Setup

To create an ideal habitat for the Violet Jellyfish, set up a specialized jellyfish aquarium with curved or rounded corners. Ensure gentle circular laminar water flow to keep them suspended and free of harm. Avoid any sharp edges or rough decor that could damage the jellyfish. Maintain stable water conditions with appropriate lighting and food sources to support their health and longevity.

Behaviour

The Violet Jellyfish is a peaceful species with an active swimming behavior that brings movement and life to a jellyfish aquarium. Their rhythmic pulsations and translucent beauty make them a mesmerizing addition to an expertly curated aquatic setup.

Feeding and Diet

As carnivorous filter feeders, Violet Jellyfish primarily rely on photosynthetic zooxanthellae algae within their bodies for nutrition. Supplement their diet with regular offerings of small meaty items such as baby brine shrimp and neutrally-buoyant prepared foods suitable for filter-feeding invertebrates to ensure their dietary needs are met.

Dimorphism

Information on dimorphism is currently unavailable.

Habitat and Distribution

The Violet Jellyfish, scientifically classified as Mastigia sp., is commonly known as the Spotted Lagoon Jellyfish. This species can be found in various regions, inhabiting lagoons and other suitable marine environments where they can thrive under the right conditions.