Vertical distribution of Aurelia labiata (Scyphozoa) jellyfish in Roscoe Bay is similar during flood and ebb tides

Abstract

The vertical distribution of the jellyfish, Aurelia labiata, was assessed during flood and ebb tides in April, May, June, and August 2009 in Roscoe Bay (British Columbia, Canada). Assessments were made at locations along the entire length of the bay. The average tide change was 3.7 m. The vertical position of medusae (in 2 m intervals) did not differ significantly during ebb ( N = 17) and flood tides ( N = 18) in 6 and 8 m water columns. These results indicate that A. labiata do not use tidally synchronized vertical migration to maintain their location or presence in Roscoe Bay.