Researchers at Hong Kong Baptist University have discovered a new species of jellyfish, Tripedalia maipoensis, in a shrimp pond in Mai Po Nature Reserve. The tiny creature is only about half an inch long and has a unique body shape that helps it swim quickly through murky waters.
The discovery adds to the growing knowledge of box jellyfish, which are known for their surprising mental abilities despite being small and soft. Tripedalia maipoensis shares some features with its Caribbean relative but differs in several key traits.
Using DNA analysis, scientists have confirmed that the new species is distinct from its cousin, Tripedalia cystophora. The jellyfish has 24 eyes arranged in four clusters on its bell-shaped body, which helps it navigate and find food.
The discovery highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect local biodiversity and the hidden life in our ecosystems. Researchers are now eager to study the behavior and learning abilities of this new species to better understand its unique characteristics.
Source: https://www.earth.com/news/strange-cubic-tripedalia-jellyfish-with-24-eyes-discovered-hong-kong