Craspedacusta sowerbyi, commonly known as the freshwater jellyfish, is a small, translucent jellyfish native to the Yangtze River basin in China. It thrives in calm, freshwater environments such as ponds and lakes. Known for its bell-shaped body, it pulsates gently to navigate and capture small aquatic prey.

Craspedacusta sowerbyi, commonly known as the freshwater jellyfish, is originally native to the Yangtze River basin in China. However, it has since spread to various parts of the world and is now found in many freshwater systems globally.

Craspedacusta sowerbyi typically inhabits freshwater environments such as lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and slow-moving rivers. These habitats usually have calm waters with low turbidity. The species prefers warm temperatures, thriving in waters ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), which is why it is often found in temperate and subtropical regions.

The freshwater jellyfish occupies a niche as both a predator and prey within its ecosystem. It primarily feeds on zooplankton, using its tentacles to capture small organisms such as copepods and cladocerans. As a part of the aquatic food web, it plays a role in controlling zooplankton populations, but it is also preyed upon by various fish species.