Jellyfish party!

[Sintax604]

I was with a group diving Lookout Point last night and we came across and incredible display of jellies. As soon as we descended (at the point) we saw a school(?) of adult moon jellies numbering in the thousands. There were about 6 jellies per square meter all 6-10" in diameter. They extended as far as we could see from about 30-50' in depth.

It was an amazing experience. Does anybody have a clue as to what they would be doing? Wikipedia says they mate all year round so I'm assuming this wasn't a once a year orgy. Also, they were clearly mature jellies, not a bunch of fresh spawn.

 

[DCBC]

I think that the marine scientists are still puzzled by the causes of Jellyfish blooms. Apparently it's a complex process dependent upon water temperature, currents, plankton and O2 concentration. It's really cool that you were able to see one!

 

[CapitanBlack]

I've seen more big jellyfishes at Lookout Point than anywhere else around Vancouver - they somehow likes this place. I took this pic at Lookout Point last year...

 

[inventor]

Cool pic!

 

[rrb]

Here is a video of the party.

YouTube - Moon Jellyfish

 

[Sintax604]

That video turned out great! Waaay easier than still photos eh?

 

[StuartT]

Scott and I experienced the same at Porteau on Sunday. Not as many but more than I've ever seen in one area. Very cool.