Ocean explorers sometimes encounter creatures that simply don’t appear to belong on this planet. We continually learn about ocean wildlife, yet extraordinary appearances, outlandish life cycles and bizarre behavior still strike us as “alien”.
Jellies epitomize this “alien” phenomenon. They look like umbrellas, can be bigger than a human, or smaller than a tack and have stinging tentacles. Yet they are poor swimmers and subject to the whims of ocean currents, making them one of the largest type of plankton.
Travel to our Planet Jellies gallery – one of the largest of its kind in the world – and learn more about the four species of jellies, beautifully exhibited in backlit kreisel tanks and colour-changing displays.
Monday -Jellyfish Care @ 1:30pm
Wednesday -Jellyfish Care @ 10:00am
Click here for our weekly schedules.
One of the most photographed animals at the Aquarium, the Pacific sea nettles, are easily one of the most bizarre creatures on display. These brainless, eye-less creatures are almost 95% water! With no eyes to help detect their food, they rely on light-sensing organs.
Moon jellies can grow up to 40cm in diameter and can be found in the Atlantic Ocean. These jellyfish are capable of life cycle reversal, where individuals grow younger instead of older! At Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, we grow our own moon jellies to display in our Life Cycles Exhibit.
Upside down jellies lie on the bottom of the ocean (upside down) to expose their algae covered arms to the sun. When disturbed, these jellyfish will swim off the bottom of the ocean or excrete stinging cells contained within mucus as a defence.
What is a kreisel tank?
A kreisel tank is a special tank designed specifically to keep jellyfish. Unlike standard aquarium exhibits, a kreisel tank is a horizontal cylinder, created to eliminate elements in a regular tank that could compromise the life of a jellyfish – such as corners and bubbles. Believe it or not, jellyfish are such poor swimmers they can easily become trapped in corners and bubbles can tear through their bells.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is designated as a Certified Autism Center by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
Download and Print Sensory Guides Here