Aurelia aurita, commonly known as the moon jellyfish, is notable for its translucent, bell-shaped body dotted with short, delicate tentacles. It thrives in coastal waters worldwide, often in large swarms. The species is known for pulsating movements and bioluminescence, playing a critical role in marine food webs as prey for various predators.

Aurelia aurita, commonly known as the moon jellyfish, is found in oceans worldwide. Its geographical distribution includes the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean Sea. It is commonly seen along the coasts of North America and Europe, extending as far north as the Arctic Ocean and as far south as the subtropical regions.

Aurelia aurita typically inhabits coastal and brackish waters. It thrives in a wide range of temperatures from 6 to 31 degrees Celsius (43 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit) and can survive in salinity levels ranging from 23 to 39 PSU (Practical Salinity Units). These jellyfish are often found in estuaries, harbors, and bays where the water is calm and nutrient-rich.

The moon jellyfish is a pelagic species, meaning it lives in the open water column rather than near the ocean floor. It feeds primarily on zooplankton, including small crustaceans, fish eggs, and larvae, using its tentacles to capture prey. Aurelia aurita plays a significant role in marine ecosystems as both predator and prey, serving as a food source for larger marine animals such as sea turtles and certain fish species.