This is Lobonema
smithii, the hairy
jellyfish
The hairy jellyfish can grow up to 50 cm in diameter
It is very distinctive in appearance due to the finger-like projections on the bell, which contain stinging cells
The stinging cells – or nematocysts – fire harpoon-like structures at prey
Nematocysts are single-use weapons that contain venom and are replaced after use by the jellyfish
Hairy jellyfish
Lobonema smithii
Sightings of the hairy jellyfish in Hong Kong are relatively uncommon
However, it is found widely throughout the warm waters of the Indo-West Pacific region
Hairy jellyfish
Lobonema smithii
The hairy jellyfish is one of the edible species of jellyfish and has antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
Jellyfish contain significant amounts of selenium, choline and collagen.
Around 11 species are edible, and jellyfish have been eaten in Asia for over 1000 years, with China currently being the main market for worldwide jellyfish fisheries.
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