An interdisciplinary approach to the scyphozoans of the Atlantic Ocean

Abstract

In this chapter we employ an interdisciplinary perspective in order to discuss the ecology and distribution of scyphozoans of the Atlantic Ocean and their interactions with humans. We review the main biological understandings that have been achieved through previous research on jellyfish and some presently continuing studies, especially in the health sciences. We also describe the main factors that have contributed to a negative evaluation ofjellyfish by the Western general public, and discuss their hierarchical relevance, given current concerns about climate change. Regarding distribution and ecology, we discuss the state of the art and present a list with 58 species of scyphozoans reported for the Atlantic, excluding defined seas such as the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Data on life cycles, including the strobilation type and reproduction strategies, are provided, as well as remarks about their interactions with other marine creatures, although information on these subjects remains sparse.