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
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