Rare Black Jellyfish

My friend spotted these three black jellyfish in the bay last night and called me to come over and see them. We didn't know what to make of them, so imagine my surprise when I opened The San Diego Union-Tribune this morning to find a story about the rare black jellyfish that have found their way to our shores! According to the article, the black jellies were spotted only a handful of times during the 1900's, but have shown up in Southern California in 2005, 2007, and this year. They are actually a dark burgandy color when seen up close. And no, they don't have eyes, the jelly fish in the top picture had two air bubbles trapped inside, giving the appearance of two large eyes.

The black Jellyfish is also known as the black sea nettle.