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Rare Freshwater Jellyfish Discovered in Lake Erie

7/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Pennsylvania DEP intern made an exciting discovery at Presque Isle, Lake Erie—a rare freshwater jellyfish, Craspedacusta sowerbii. This tiny, penny-sized creature, usually seen in its polyp form, is harmless to humans. With only about 200 sightings in Pennsylvania since 1885, this encounter is a remarkable addition to the region's biodiversity.

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Story summary

A Pennsylvania DEP intern made an exciting discovery at Presque Isle, Lake Erie—a rare freshwater jellyfish, Craspedacusta sowerbii. This tiny, penny-sized creature, usually seen in its polyp form, is harmless to humans. With only about 200 sightings in Pennsylvania since 1885, this encounter is a remarkable addition to the region's biodiversity.