Cassiopea


 * This article is about the jellyfish Cassiopea. For the constellation, see Cassiopeia (constellation). For the fictional character in Encantadia, see Cassiopea.

Cassiopea is a genus of upside-down jellyfish very commonly found in shallow mangrove swamps, mudflats, and turtle grass flats in Florida and various other similar environments around the world. Where found there may be numerous individuals with varying shades of white, blue, green and brown. They have a mild sting since they are primarily photosynthetic, but sensitive individuals may have a stronger reaction. The stings, appearing in the form of a red rash-like skin irritation, are notorious for being extraordinarily itchy.

The Cassiopea jellyfish (Cassiopea andromeda) belongs to the Order of Rhizostomeae and mostly lives in sandy areas and seagrass beds. The Cassiopea jellyfish is also called "Upside Down Jellyfish", because it is lying on its back, so the bell touches the ground. In this position it resembles a sea anemone. Sometimes this jellyfish is picked up by a crab (Dorippe frascone) and carried on its back. The crab uses the jellyfish to defend itself against possible predators.