Jellyfish reproduce through a process called sexual reproduction, which involves the fusion of male and female gametes. The reproductive cycle of jellyfish typically involves several stages:
Adult Stage: Adult jellyfish, also known as medusae, release sperm and eggs into the water.
Fertilization: When sperm and eggs are released into the water, fertilization occurs externally. Sperm released by male jellyfish swim to reach and fertilize the eggs released by female jellyfish.
Planula Larvae: Once fertilized, the eggs develop into larvae called planulae. Planula larvae are microscopic and free-swimming. They drift with ocean currents until they find a suitable surface to attach to, such as rocks or the sea floor.
Polyp Stage: Upon finding a suitable substrate, the planula larva attaches itself and undergoes metamorphosis into a polyp. Polyps are cylindrical, often stalk-like creatures attached to the substrate.
Asexual Reproduction (Budding): The polyp reproduces asexually by budding. This means that the polyp develops small buds or outgrowths that eventually detach and become individual juvenile jellyfish called ephyrae.
Ephyra Stage: Ephyrae are small, immature jellyfish that resemble medusae but are smaller and lack full tentacles. They grow and mature into adult medusae, thus completing the life cycle.
This complex life cycle involving both sexual and asexual reproduction is characteristic of many jellyfish species. It allows them to adapt to different environmental conditions and ensures their survival in various marine ecosystems.
