BREAKING: A jellyfish species thought to be extinct for nearly 50 years has been rediscovered in South Uist, Scotland. The Depastrum cyathiforme, a rare stalked jellyfish, was spotted by tourist Neil Roberts while on vacation in June 2023, sparking excitement among marine biologists and enthusiasts.
Roberts stumbled upon the jellyfish while photographing marine life, and upon reviewing his photos, he realized he had captured an image of the elusive D. cyathiforme. “With some trepidation I put my newly purchased camera under the water and took a few photos,” Roberts told British Wildlife editor Guy Freeman. His find comes after the jellyfish was last documented in France in 1976.
Freeman described the moment as “like seeing a ghost” after examining Roberts’s images. The rediscovery has prompted Freeman to organize further searches in the area, raising hopes that a stable population of these jellyfish may still exist in Scotland. “You cannot conserve something if you don’t know where it is, nor even whether it still exists,” Freeman emphasized.
Marine expert Allen Collins from the Smithsonian Institute also expressed excitement, stating, “This is really a remarkable find, and I was so happy to learn about it. We can now be certain that this rarely encountered species persists.” The summer months are noted as the best time to spot D. cyathiforme, typically found on the underside of boulders or in shaded pools.
Freeman’s team discovered a habitat that seems unremarkable, suggesting there may be many similar sites along the coast that could host more of these jellies. He cautioned against taking this for granted until more evidence emerges. “I am hoping that more individuals will soon be found,” Collins added.
This rediscovery not only highlights the resilience of marine life but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts. As researchers work to monitor the health and presence of D. cyathiforme, the public is encouraged to respect the environment and be mindful of the delicate ecosystems along the Scottish shores.
The excitement surrounding this find is palpable, and it serves as a reminder of the wonders that still await discovery in our oceans. Share this remarkable news as we continue to keep an eye on the flourishing world of jellyfish in Scotland!
