Moon jellyfish eat by using stinging cells on their appendages to capture tiny zooplankton, larvae, and krill that bump into them.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Stinging Cells (Nematocysts): When prey comes into contact with the jellyfish's tentacles or oral arms, specialized cells called cnidocytes fire tiny, dart-like structures called nematocysts. These nematocysts inject venom, stunning or killing the prey.
- Capture and Transport: The tentacles and oral arms, which are located around the jellyfish's mouth, then move the paralyzed or dead prey towards the mouth.
- Mucus-Coated Bell: The bell of the jellyfish is also coated in mucus. This sticky substance acts like flypaper, trapping drifting prey. The jellyfish then uses its cilia (tiny hair-like structures) to move the trapped prey towards its mouth.
- Digestion: Once in the jellyfish's gastrovascular cavity (a sac-like digestive system), enzymes break down the prey. Nutrients are then absorbed by the jellyfish's cells.
In essence, moon jellyfish are passive hunters, relying on their stinging cells and mucus to capture small organisms that drift into their reach. They don't actively chase after prey.
