Milk Sea Nettle

Chrysaora lactea

Chrysaora lactea, commonly known as the Milk Sea Nettle, features a bell diameter that can reach up to 25 cm (10 in). This jellyfish is primarily found along the Atlantic coast of South America, particularly near Brazil, but it can also be spotted in the coastal waters of Argentina and Cuba. Its presence in the Caribbean has been noted, although genetic studies suggest that these individuals may be more closely related to C. chesapeakei. The Milk Sea Nettle is characterized by its distinct morphology, including clefts in the lappets adjacent to the rhopalia and multiple tentacles that vary in length. It typically has five to nine tentacles per octant, which helps differentiate it from similar species.  This species thrives in pelagic environments and is typically found in tropical waters. It plays a significant role in the local ecosystem but can negatively impact human activities, particularly tourism, due to its stinging capability. Large aggregations of Milk Sea Nettles, known as blooms, can be harmful to both local marine life and recreational activities. Their life cycle includes stages such as scyphistomae and ephyrae before maturing into medusae.  Encounters with the Milk Sea Nettle during dives can be intriguing, but divers should exercise caution due to their sting. This species is not currently evaluated by the IUCN, and thus its conservation status remains undetermined. However, its occurrence in various dive sites indicates its relatively common presence in suitable habitats.