About Clytia gregaria (Agassiz, 1862)
Description: Mature individuals of Clytia gregaria can reach 2 cm in bell diameter, though they rarely reach 1.5 cm. The bell of this species is translucent and saucer-shaped, with a diameter that is greater than its height. Four radial canals are positioned close to the bell margin, and each holds one elongated white or yellowish gonad. Up to 60 highly extensile tentacles of equal length grow on the bell margin of mature individuals. The mouth opens directly into the manubrium, which is pale yellow or brownish and has four ruffled lips. The manubrium is attached directly to the subumbrella. A lateral stripe of dark pigment may sometimes appear on the bell margin and on the gonads. Range and habitat: Clytia gregaria occurs in the eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Alaska to Oregon. It is a pelagic species that is commonly found floating close to shore. Ecology: The larvae of the sea anemone Peachia quinquecapitata are ectoparasites of Clytia gregaria.
