Moon Jellyfish, scientifically known as Aurelia aurita, are arguably the most captivating and serene aquatic creatures you can keep. Their gentle pulsations and translucent, milky-white bells make them a mesmerizing addition to any home. If you’ve ever wondered, Can You Get Pet Jellyfish?, the answer is a resounding yes! Moon Jellyfish are particularly popular as pet jellyfish due to their relatively easy care requirements and established husbandry methods.
What are Moon Jellyfish?
Moon Jellyfish are the most commonly available species in the pet trade, famed for their almost hypnotic movements and beautiful opaque white coloration. Originating from temperate and warmer waters, the Moon Jellyfish available for aquariums are often bred to thrive in similar conditions to home tanks, making them well-suited for beginners. Their prevalence means that detailed care information is readily available, simplifying the process of keeping these fascinating invertebrates.
Moon Jellyfish Facts & Care Basics
Before you decide to bring these ethereal beings home, let’s dive into some essential facts about Moon Jellyfish:
- Lifespan: Up to 24 months, offering a relatively long-lived pet experience.
- Sting: Virtually non-existent, making them safe to observe closely.
- Water Temperature: Ideal range is 18-24°C (64-75°F), comfortable room temperature for many homes.
- Food: They thrive on a diet of baby brine shrimp or specialized jellyfish food like JellyFuel.
- Maximum Size: Can grow up to 30cm (12 inches) in diameter, though size is adaptable to feeding.
- Compatibility: Best kept in a species-only tank with other Moon Jellyfish, ensuring a harmonious environment.
Setting Up a Jellyfish Tank for Moon Jellies
Creating the right environment is crucial for the health of your pet jellyfish. A specialized jellyfish aquarium is highly recommended. These tanks are designed with circular flow patterns which prevent jellyfish from getting trapped in corners, mimicking their natural oceanic currents. Maintaining stable water parameters is also key, with temperature being particularly important. Luckily, Moon Jellyfish are adaptable to typical room temperatures, often eliminating the need for a chiller.
Feeding Your Pet Moon Jellyfish
Nutrition is vital for the well-being and longevity of your Moon Jellyfish. Their diet should primarily consist of baby brine shrimp, either live or frozen, or a commercial jellyfish food like JellyFuel. Feeding should occur once a day. Interestingly, the size of Moon Jellyfish can be influenced by their food intake, allowing you to manage their growth to suit your tank size.
Moon Jellyfish Lifespan and Growth Explained
Moon Jellyfish boast a commendable lifespan for jellyfish, potentially living for up to two years under optimal conditions. When you purchase Moon Jellyfish, they are typically young, maximizing the time you can enjoy them. Their adaptable size, influenced by feeding, makes them excellent starter pets as you can adjust their growth according to your aquarium setup.
Are Moon Jellyfish the Right Pet for You?
If you’re seeking a unique, low-maintenance, and visually stunning pet, Moon Jellyfish are an excellent choice. Their care is well-documented, and their adaptability makes them suitable for beginners in the world of jellyfish keeping. The gentle, pulsing movements of Moon Jellyfish are known for their calming effect, bringing a tranquil and fascinating slice of the ocean into your home. So, if you’re considering taking the plunge into keeping jellyfish, Moon Jellyfish are a fantastic starting point.
