Glowing red jellyfish found in deep ocean

WASHINGTON – The first deep sea red-light district – glowing appendages on a newly discovered jellyfish relative – appear to flash their come-hither message to lure prey.

Jellyfish and other types of sea creatures are known to produce light, but this is the first deep ocean invertebrate known to use red fluorescent light, said Steven H. D. Haddock of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute in Moss Landing, Calif.

Three of the animals were found by scientists using a remote controlled research vehicle at depths of between 5,200 feet and 7,500 feet off the coast of California. The discovery is reported in today’s issue of the journal Science.

The animal, which has not yet been named, has tentacles with side branches that consist of stinging cells attached to a central stalk.

The researchers said that inside the stalk are spots that produce blue-green light when immature and red light when mature.

Based on the shape, size and motion of the tentacles, and the fish found in the stomachs, Haddock said the researchers believe the red lights are being used to attract fish that can then be captured and eaten.