medúza

Medúza is the Swedish word for jellyfish. Jellyfish are free-swimming marine animals that belong to the phylum Cnidaria. They are characterized by their gelatinous umbrella-shaped bells and trailing tentacles. These tentacles often contain stinging cells called cnidocytes, which they use to capture prey and for defense. Jellyfish are found in all oceans of the world, from the surface to the deep sea.

There are thousands of species of jellyfish, varying greatly in size, shape, and color. Some are as small as a thumbnail, while others can have bells over six feet wide and tentacles extending over 100 feet. Their diet consists mainly of plankton, small fish, and crustaceans. Jellyfish have a simple anatomy, lacking a brain, heart, or bones. They move by pulsating their bells, which propels them through the water.

While many jellyfish stings are mild and cause only minor irritation, some species possess venom that can be dangerous or even lethal to humans. Common areas where jellyfish are encountered include coastal waters and beaches, especially during certain seasons. In Sweden, like in many other countries, jellyfish are a natural part of the marine ecosystem. Their presence can sometimes lead to temporary closures of swimming areas if certain species are abundant and their sting is considered a significant hazard.