Most Scyphozoans are free-swimming marine animals living in the open ocean, however some small species are planktonic, and a few species that are filter feeders, using the tentacles to strain plankton from the water live attached to the ocean floor.

Where do Scyphozoans live?

Scyphozoans live in all oceans, from the Arctic to tropical waters. Some inhabit the deep sea, but most live near the coastal waters. Most are motile animals, but members of the order Stauromedusae are sessile.

How does a Scyphozoa move?

Unlike other types of jellyfish, scyphozoans lack a velum, a circular membrane which propels other jellyfish through the water. Scyphozoans move through the water by contracting and relaxing the muscles of their umbrella.