Purple-striped Sea Nettle in Giant Kelp Forest_01

The Purple-striped Sea Nettle, aka Purple-Striped Jellyfish, is found primarily off the coast of California. Large and striking, adult purple-striped jellies are silvery white with deep-purple bands, and very rare. They are planktonic creatures flowing with the currents, and are eaten by mola mola and sea turtles. 
 
Scientific Name: Chrysaora colorata
 
Southern California’s incredible Giant Kelp Forests are home to a rich array of marine life. These towering seaweeds provide structure, food, and hiding places for more than 1,000 species of plants and animals. Known for its size, it can reach over 200 feet in length and grow as fast as 1.5 feet per day. Giant kelp is able to grow vertically due to gas-filled bladders known as pneumatocysts, which keep the upper portions of the algae afloat. 
 
Scientific Name: Macrocystis pyrifera