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.
Moon jellyfish
Aurelia aurita
Type
Cnidarians, Jellyfish
Description
Transparent, umbrella-shaped bell edged with short hair-like tentacles, and four rings towards centre. Mostly harmless, though may sting sensitive skin. Very common, can bloom in large numbers when our chilly seas begin to warm up, or cool down.
Forms mating aggregations in late summer using the sun as a compass.
Location
All around the UK, especially sheltered waters in the west of Scotland.
Habitat
Open ocean, Strandline