What do jellyfish eat?

Jellyfish are carnivores and feed primarily on zooplankton, which includes small crustaceans, fish larvae, and other microscopic organisms. Some jellyfish species are known to be very selective in their feeding habits, while others are more opportunistic and consume a wide variety of zooplankton. Jellyfish typically capture their prey using their tentacles, which are covered in stinging cells called nematocysts. These nematocysts release a toxin that paralyzes the prey, making it easier for the jellyfish to consume it.

Some jellyfish species are also known to be predators of other jellyfish species, as well as small fish and even larger marine animals. For example, the lion's mane jellyfish (Cyanea capillata) is known to prey on other jellyfish species, as well as small fish and squid. The purple stinger jellyfish (Pelagia noctiluca) is another jellyfish species that is known to be a voracious predator, feeding on a variety of zooplankton, as well as small fish and even other jellyfish species.

In general, jellyfish play an important role in the marine food chain as both predators and prey species. As predators, jellyfish help to control the populations of zooplankton and other small marine animals. As prey, jellyfish are consumed by a variety of marine animals, including fish, sea turtles, and other predators.