description Deepstaria enigmatica Overview
Deepstaria enigmatica is a deep-sea jellyfish recognized by its unusually thin, broad bell, which can fold into a baglike form around prey. The species was formally described in 1967 and belongs to the family Ulmaridae within the true jellyfishes, or Scyphozoa. Because it inhabits deep pelagic waters and is delicate, it is rarely encountered intact, with many observations coming from crewed submersibles or remotely operated vehicles.
insights Ranking position
Deepstaria enigmatica ranks #12 of 208 in the Jellyfish ranking, behind Warty Comb Jelly (Mnemiopsis leidyi), ahead of Lagoon Jellyfish (Mastigias papua).
help Deepstaria enigmatica FAQ
Why does Deepstaria enigmatica look like a floating plastic bag?
Its bell is extremely broad, thin, and flexible, so it folds and billows instead of holding the firm dome associated with many jellyfish. The animal can close this baglike bell around prey.
Does Deepstaria enigmatica have tentacles?
It lacks the long marginal tentacles seen in many familiar jellyfish. Instead, it captures food using its expansive bell and an internal network of canals.
How deep does Deepstaria enigmatica live?
It inhabits the deep ocean and is most often encountered by remotely operated vehicles far below ordinary diving depths. Observations have come from deep waters in multiple ocean basins, including the Pacific and Gulf of Mexico.
What is the dark web-like pattern visible inside Deepstaria?
The branching pattern is the jellyfish's gastrovascular canal system, which distributes nutrients through its large bell. It becomes especially conspicuous when submersible lights illuminate the otherwise translucent animal.
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