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Thimble Jellyfish (Linuche unguiculata)

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description Thimble Jellyfish (Linuche unguiculata) Overview

The thimble jellyfish, Linuche unguiculata, is a small coronate jellyfish found in warm western Atlantic waters, including the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Its medusa has a compact, thimble-shaped bell, while its early life stages occur in coastal waters. Contact with its nematocyst-bearing larvae can cause seabather's eruption, an itchy rash that often develops beneath swimwear after exposure.

help Thimble Jellyfish (Linuche unguiculata) FAQ

Where is Linuche unguiculata found?

The thimble jellyfish lives in warm western Atlantic waters, including the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. It is a marine species associated with warm coastal waters rather than freshwater.

Why is Linuche unguiculata called the thimble jellyfish?

Its medusa has a compact, thimble-shaped bell, which gives the species its common name. Linuche unguiculata is the scientific name for that thimble jellyfish.

Can thimble jellyfish cause sea-bather's eruption?

Yes, its early life stages are associated with sea-bather's eruption, a stinging rash that can occur when tiny larvae become trapped under swimwear. The adult medusa and larval stage are different parts of the Linuche unguiculata life cycle.

Are thimble jellyfish large?

No, Linuche unguiculata is a small coronate jellyfish with a compact bell. Its small size does not make the species harmless, because contact with its early stages can still irritate human skin.

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