Hyperia galba

Hyperia galba is a small amphipod crustacean, notable for its translucent, light brown body and very large green eyes that cover the sides of its short, rounded head. Females are more robust than males, with shorter antennae. This species is typically found in the North Sea but is also widespread across the Arctic, Northern Pacific, Atlantic Ocean, and Western Indian Ocean. It inhabits depths ranging from 85 to 1000 meters, with a significant number of occurrences in shallower waters, often less than 40 meters deep. Hyperia galba is commonly associated with jellyfish, such as those in the genera Rhizostoma and Aurelia. It is known to parasitize Cassiopea andromeda and Cyanea capillata, while possibly forming commensal relationships with Aurelia aurita. Divers may encounter Hyperia galba in open-water environments, where it lives symbiotically with its jellyfish hosts. Its small size, up to 1.2 cm, and unique association with jellyfish make it an interesting species to observe. Currently, there is no evaluation of its conservation status.