Scientists have made an astonishing discovery: a jellyfish with 24 eyes was found in a pond at the Mai Po Nature Reserve in Hong Kong. This strange creature defies what we thought we knew about nature.
In 2024, while testing water quality in the wetlands, researchers caught this unfamiliar organism. It turned out to be a new species of box jellyfish, known as Tripedalia maipoensis. This jellyfish isn’t just unique in appearance; it’s also venomous.
The team was amazed when they examined it. Here are some of its shocking features:
- 24 eyes, grouped in sets of six.
- Tentacles that can reach 15 centimeters long, with specialized ends.
- A venom that packs a serious punch.
This jellyfish also has exceptional eyesight. Some of its eyes detect light, while others are capable of detailed vision. This adaptation makes it an efficient predator.
Unlike many jellyfish that drift along with ocean currents, Tripedalia maipoensis swims at speeds up to 7 km/h. Its paddle-like tentacle ends help it dart through the water with agility.
The discovery raises intriguing questions. This is the first box jellyfish identified in Hong Kong, and its genetic links extend to regions as far as Australia, Florida, and Jamaica. How did it end up in a Hong Kong pond?
Researchers are exploring various theories. Perhaps ocean currents transported its ancestors, or human actions brought it closer. There may even be unique evolutionary traits allowing it to thrive in this area.
The presence of Tripedalia maipoensis reminds us of the mysteries still waiting to be uncovered in nature. With its impressive vision and speedy movements, this jellyfish challenges our understanding of life in our waters. Every time we think we’ve seen it all, nature surprises us again.
