UK Seas

Discover the wonderful sea creatures that inhabit the UK seas and shores

UK seas is a guide to the fauna and flora found around UK coasts. While the majority of species are marine, some species are included that are regularly encountered on land by the coast, so you’ll find descriptions of non-marine species such as reptiles, amphibians, insects and plants as well.

Lions mane jellyfish

Cyanea capillata

Type

Cnidarians, Jellyfish

Description

Large, reddish brown, umbrella-shaped bell with a mass of long, thin hair-like tentacles. A striking animal, beautiful but dangerous, with a potentially severe sting.

Featured as a surprise killer in a Sherlock Holmes story, “The Adventure of the Lion’s Mane”.

Location

Usually to the north, but at any time of year.

Habitat

Open ocean