Moon jellies live in temperate and tropical waters worldwide, typically near the surface of shallow bays and harbors.
Moon jellies ( Aurelia aurita) are commonly found in a wide range of marine environments. Their preference for specific conditions dictates their distribution:
- Geographic Distribution: They inhabit oceans globally, favoring temperate and tropical regions.
- Depth: They are usually found near the surface.
- Habitat: Common locations include shallow bays and harbors where food is plentiful.
During specific times of the year, such as summer, moon jellies can be abundant in certain areas, for instance, the lower Chesapeake Bay. They drift with the currents, feeding on zooplankton like tiny shrimp and crustaceans. The combination of temperature, salinity, and food availability makes these locations ideal for moon jelly populations to thrive.
