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Rhizostoma octopus
Harmless

Rhizostoma octopus

Scyphozoa (Rhizostomatidae)

One of the largest jellyfish in Europe. Despite its impressive size, it often shelters small juvenile fish that come to hide under its umbrella to protect themselves from predators.

Sting symptoms

Generally harmless, but the mucus released in the water around it can be slightly irritating.

Identification

Massive, white to bluish bell-shaped, often with a blue or purple edge. It has no long tentacles but very large, folded oral arms resembling a cauliflower.
Size
Umbrella: up to 90 cm (very massive)
Habitat
Coastal zones and estuaries.
Scientific family

Scyphozoa (Rhizostomatidae)

Community photos

Photos submitted and verified by Meduseo users. (390)

Rhizostoma octopus
18/09/2026 Bretignolles-sur-Mer
Rhizostoma octopus
18/09/2026 Pirou
Rhizostoma octopus
18/09/2026 Houlgate
Rhizostoma octopus
17/09/2026 Isla Cristina
Rhizostoma octopus
16/09/2026 Marseillan
Rhizostoma octopus
14/09/2026 Cascais
Rhizostoma octopus
13/09/2026 Santander
Rhizostoma octopus
12/09/2026 Palavas-les-Flots
Rhizostoma octopus
10/09/2026 Narbonne
Rhizostoma octopus
10/09/2026 Arcachon
Rhizostoma octopus
10/09/2026 Merville-Franceville-Plage
Rhizostoma octopus
08/09/2026 Sant Pere Pescador
Rhizostoma octopus
07/09/2026 Saundersfoot
Rhizostoma octopus
07/09/2026 Chiclana de la Frontera
Rhizostoma octopus
07/09/2026 Soustons
Rhizostoma octopus
07/09/2026 València
Rhizostoma octopus
07/09/2026 Rincón de la Victoria
Rhizostoma octopus
07/09/2026 Coxyde
Rhizostoma octopus
06/09/2026 Vielle-Saint-Girons
Rhizostoma octopus
06/09/2026 Cabourg
Rhizostoma octopus
06/09/2026 València
Rhizostoma octopus
06/09/2026 Mauguio
Rhizostoma octopus
05/09/2026 La Baule-Escoublac
Rhizostoma octopus
05/09/2026 Wissant
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