Marine: Ch. 7 - Comb Jellies Flashcards

Comb jellies may have evolved from coelenterates.

Comb jellies are considered plankton.

Fresh water comb jellies are exclusively tropical.

Scientists use plankton nets to collect comb jellies.

There are over sixty species of ctenophores.

Many comb jellies are bioluminescent.

Unlike many jellyfish, comb jellies are usually colorless.

Comb jellies often swarm in large aggregations.

Sharks eat comb jellies.

Beroe's comb jelly was named after the Greek goddess of hair, Beroe.

What class are comb jellies a part of?

What likes jellyfish?

What do comb jellies prey on?

Do comb jellies contain both female and male parts?

How long can their tentacles grow?

Comb Jellies Overview

Comb jellies may have evolved from coelenterates, suggesting a potential ancestral link.
Classified as plankton, they drift and are carried by ocean currents.
Not exclusively tropical; fresh water comb jellies can exist in various climates.

Collection and Species

Plankton nets are ineffective for collecting comb jellies; other methods are typically employed.
There are over one hundred species of ctenophores, contrary to some misconceptions.

Characteristics and Behavior

Many species of comb jellies exhibit bioluminescence, allowing them to emit light.
Generally, comb jellies are colorless, differentiating them from many jellyfish that display vibrant colors.
They often form large swarms or aggregations in aquatic environments.

Predation and Ecology

Sharks are known to prey on comb jellies, showcasing their role in the marine food web.
Comb jellies prey on plankton, larvae, and roe, serving as predators in the ecosystem.

Biological Traits

Comb jellies are hermaphroditic, containing both male and female reproductive parts.
Their tentacles can grow between 4 to 6 inches in length, assisting in capturing prey.

Classification

Comb jellies belong to the class Ctenophora, highlighting their unique taxonomic group among marine organisms.

Test your knowledge on comb jellies with these flashcards from Chapter 7 of Marine Biology. This quiz covers key facts about their evolution, habitat, and classification. Perfect for students wanting to master this topic!