Skip to main content
Aquarium of the Pacific - A Non-profit Organization

South American Sea Nettle

Chrysaora plocamia

As with most other jellies, the tentacles on this jelly have small, barbed stingers called nematocysts that release a toxin to immobilize their prey. They feed on zooplankton, larval fishes, and even other jellies. The bell of this jelly can grow up to around twelve inches or more in diameter and six feet or more in length. They can have different color variations from white with a brown tint to orange. You may sometimes see small crustaceans and juvenile fish on them, which use this jelly for shelter and protection.

Originally published: May 08, 2026
Last updated: May 20, 2026

flowing South American sea nettle with long ruffled oral arms

Credit: Josh Barber / Aquarium of the Pacific

SPECIES IN DETAIL

South American Sea Nettle

Chrysaora plocamia

CONSERVATION STATUS:

CLIMATE CHANGE:

Geographic Distribution

Mainly in the Atlantic Ocean off Argentina, in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Peru and south along the coast of Chile and down to Tierra del Fuego

SPECIES IN DETAIL | Print full entry

South American Sea Nettle

Chrysaora plocamia

CONSERVATION STATUS:

CLIMATE CHANGE:

Mainly in the Atlantic Ocean off Argentina, in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Peru and south along the coast of Chile and down to Tierra del Fuego