General Description

This is a benthic ctenophore which is flattened with no distinctive form. There are 18-30 wart-like papillae on the upper surface. Two sheathed tentacles. Colour ranges from yellowish white, to orange, pink, red and purple with opaque white spots.

Biology

These unusual ctenophores crawl along the sea floor and may be found in association with other animals, such as sea urchins.

Habitat

On seaweed or sea urchins, on the sea floor in shallow subtidal areas, to depth of 20 m.

Reefs

Distribution guide

New Zealand, Antarctic, west North Pacific. In South Australia, also western and central Victoria.

Species Group

Jellyfishes and allies › Comb jellies

Depth

Shallow (1-30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

Diet

Carnivore

Harmful

Not known to be dangerous to humans.

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Recorded in Australia

Identify

• Jellyfish and allies

Conservation Status

• DSE Advisory List : Not listed
• EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
• IUCN Red List : Not listed