How is a jellyfish born?

Jellyfish have a fascinating life cycle that involves two distinct stages: the polyp and the medusa. Here's how a jellyfish is born:

1. The Polyp Stage:

* Planula Larvae: It all starts with a fertilized egg. The egg develops into a free-swimming larva called a planula.

* Polyp Attachment: The planula eventually settles on a suitable surface like a rock or seaweed and attaches itself.

* Polyp Growth: The planula transforms into a polyp, a stalk-like structure with a mouth and tentacles at the top.

* Asexual Reproduction: The polyp reproduces asexually through budding, producing tiny versions of itself.

2. The Medusa Stage:

* Strobila Formation: The polyps eventually develop into a stack of discs called a strobila.

* Ephyrae Release: The discs, known as ephyrae, detach from the strobila and become free-swimming young jellyfish.

* Medusa Growth: The ephyrae mature into the familiar bell-shaped medusa, which is the stage we typically associate with jellyfish.

Key Points:

* Alternation of Generations: Jellyfish exhibit an interesting life cycle with alternating generations—the sessile polyp and the free-swimming medusa.

* Asexual and Sexual Reproduction: They reproduce both asexually (through budding) in the polyp stage and sexually (through egg and sperm) in the medusa stage.

* Complex Life Cycle: This complex cycle allows jellyfish to adapt to different environments and ensure the survival of their species.

So, in essence, a jellyfish is born from a polyp that produces tiny discs called ephyrae, which then grow into the familiar medusa stage. It's a captivating and intricate process that showcases the diversity and wonder of marine life!