Continuing my exhibition of exotic animals, I present a prime example of the bizarre and awe-inspiring ability for the ocean to produce truly alien creatures.  The Black Sea Nettle (Chrysaora achlyos), otherwise known as the Sarlacc or Black Jellyfish is found in the Pacific Ocean. A fairly massive specimen, its bell can reach diameters of 1 meter in length and its tentacles 6 meters. Displaying a vividly contrasting maroon hue against the ocean’s blue/green backdrop, Chrysaora achlyos preys upon zooplankton, and are often found en masse during red tide phenomenons in which zooplankton are responsible.

Like most Cnidarians, Chrysaora achlyos‘ tentacles are armed with many poisonous barbs that stun and trap prey called nematocysts — once triggered, these barbs launch and envenom their target, sometimes even resulting in the death of smaller prey, but for humans, a very painful sting.