Deep has World's Largest Jellyfish!

Article published on 22 July 2010

A jellyfish donated to The Deep by a fisherman is thought to be the largest in the world in an aquarium. The pink Lion's Mane jellyfish, which was found off the East Yorkshire coast, has a bell of 14 inches (35.5cms) diameter and a mass of pink flowing tentacles.

Deep aquarist Tom Rowe explains, "We were delighted to receive this wonderful animal yesterday. It's the first time I've seen a Lion's Mane jellyfish in the region and it is by far the largest jelly ever displayed at The Deep. As far as we know it's the largest jellyfish in the world in captivity.

Lion's Mane jellyfish tend to be common along the south coast and in Scottish waters. It arrived with a small tear on the bell so we're keeping a close eye on it in quarantine, however, it is very active and appears to be thriving. It will be on display in the attraction by the weekend."

Lion's Mane Facts - latin name Cyanar capillata

Largest known species of jellyfish in the world
Largest recorded specimen was washed up in Massachusetts Bay 1870, with a bell measuring over 7 feet in diameter with tentacles longer than 120feet
Has a sting but not fatal to humans
Was the killer Sherlock Holmes story 'A Lion's Mane'
Lives in cold waters of Arctic, Northern Atlantic and Northern Pacific
Is cannibalistic and feeds on other jellyfish such as moon jellies

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