Most people expect to find jellyfish in the ocean. In reality, you can find little jellyfish right here in the Show Me State. These freshwater jellyfish can be found in lakes all across Missouri. Autumn is the best season for jellyfish spotting, find out what lakes in Missouri have confirmed sightings.
Missouri is home to many peaceful lakes that are perfect for kayaking. These quiet lakes hide a surprising creature - freshwater jellyfish. Most recently, a Missouri Department of Conservation staff member discovered a pocket of jellyfish floating near the surface of Lake Tom Sawyer.
Missouri State Parks Website
Freshwater jellyfish can be found in 44 states across the US. Although these creatures aren’t uncommon, they aren’t spotted very often in Missouri. However, September and early October are the best months to spot them.
Missouri Department of Conservation Website
Much like their saltwater relatives, these jellyfish do have stingers. Luckily, because of their small size the sting doesn’t harm humans. Fully grown these jellyfish only grow to be about an inch in diameter.
Missouri Department of Conservation Website
Confirmed sightings have also appeared in Pomme De Terre Lake. These delicate animals can’t handle much of a current, so you can usually find them on smaller lakes throughout the state.
Missouri State Parks Website
On warm fall days the jellyfish will rise toward the top of the water to feed. Their presence also indicates good water quality since their colonies can’t thrive in polluted waters.
Missouri Department of Conservation Website
Paddle out into a quite cove for the best shot at seeing these gentle jellyfish. Sightings have even occurred at Lake of the Ozarks.
Missouri Department of Conservation Website
Seeing these jellyfish requires a little bit of luck and a lot of patience. Why not try your luck at Stockton Lake, where jellyfish have been spotted before.
Missouri State Parks Website
Check out this short video, taken on Lake Tom Sawyer at Mark Twain State Park, that shows these freshwater jellyfish floating with the current.
Missouri State Parks Website
Missouri Department of Conservation Website
Did you know Missouri was home to freshwater jellyfish? Have you ever seen one of these aquatic creatures? Share with us in the comments below?
FRESHWATER JELLYFISH: MDC’s Karen Armstrong took this video while kayaking on Lake Tom Sawyer at Mark Twain State Park. Septemeber is a great month to view these fascinating creatures in their habitat. Learn more about freshwater jellyfish at the Northeast Regional Office in Kirksville or on MDC’s website at https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/freshwater-jellyfish — Lucas@MDC
Do you love the ocean? Dine beneath the blue glow of this huge ocean aquarium at this Missouri restaurant.
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