Carybdea marsupialis
Distribution:
From Santa Barbara south to Baja Mexico, also found in tropical and subtropical Atlantic and Mediterranean waters.
Habitat:
Often associated kelp beds, generally seen close to the sea floor.
Size:
20-40 mm bell diameter, as adults.
Diet:
Crustaceans, polychaetes, and small fish.
Useful Facts or Characters:
Cube-like shape with 4 flattened sides; one long tentacle comes from each corner of the cube. Tan or gold flecks seen on bell, nematocyst-containing nodules found along the bell.
Natural History:
Bear complex eyes that detect light and aide cubozoans in escaping from nets. They swim almost constantly, except when bringing food to the mouth. Carybdea marsupialis is not commonly seen in southern California, but sightings have usually occurred between August and November.
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