Monday, February 18, 2008

Reproduction


Jellies are able to reproduce in two different ways: by producing polyps and medusa. A mature polyp reproduces by budding which is asexual. It forms an entire colony of polyps. The medusa then swims off and matures. Then that medusa can reproduce sexually by releasing either egg or sperm into the ocean. When the two meet, a zygote is formed. This develops into larva. When the larva is mature, it leaves the adult medusa, finds a surface to attach to, and develops into a new polyp. (click to view larger image)