Carukia barnesi Southeutt, 1967
Box jelly
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Family:  Carybdeidae ()
Max. size:  2 cm WD (male/unsexed)
Environment:  pelagic; marine
Distribution:  Indo-West Pacific: Australia.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Despite being discovered to be causing Irukandji syndrome over 50 years ago, little is known on the ecology of its early life stage. Polyp stage is suggested to be found in estuarine habitats based on observed increase in asexual reproduction under low salinity conditions. Medusa is oceanic, typically found around coral reefs, islands, and along beaches with certain conditions. Species may live in areas with high degree of osmotic variation. Population stability was achieved at temperatures between 18 and 31°C; optimum temperature was at 22.9°C (Ref. 116835).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. 123251)
Threat to humans:  harmless
Country info:   
 

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