The invasive peach blossom jellyfish, a species native to China, has been rapidly multiplying in freshwater bodies across British Columbia, Canada. The clone-like creatures, which are a threat to local biodiversity, are expected to increase in number due to climate change, according to researchers from the University of British Columbia (UBC).
The peach blossom jellyfish, known scientifically as Craspedacusta sp., has been found in 34 locations in British Columbia, marking its northernmost distribution in North America. A recent study predicts that as climate change expands its range, the frequency of sightings and the number of locations will increase by the end of this decade.
Understanding the Threat
Dr. Florian Lüskow, a postdoctoral researcher at UBC’s Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences (EOAS) department, conducted the research during his postdoctoral studies. He discussed the mysterious gelatinous organisms with Dr. Evgeny Pakhomov, a professor at EOAS and the Institute of Ocean and Fisheries (IOF).
The peach blossom jellyfish are clones, with every individual in the British Columbia population originating from a single polyp. This means that the thousands of jellyfish observed are essentially clones of a single individual.
Origins and Distribution
Since 1990, peach blossom jellyfish have been reported in British Columbia, primarily in the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, and the Sunshine Coast. They have recently been found in inland areas such as Osoyoos Lake. Over the past 34 years, a total of 85 sightings have been reported, with an average of one sighting per location per year. However, in the past decade alone, it is predicted that there will be approximately 80 sightings, and there may be more than the currently observed 34 locations.
The jellyfish are found in ponds, quarries, and lakes but have never been found in streams or rivers. They are harmless to humans as their stings cannot penetrate human skin.
Impact of Climate Change
The peach blossom jellyfish rely on mild winters and high summer temperatures for reproduction, which is why they are not found in the prairies, where winters are too cold.
Dr. Pakhomov explained that if climate change leads to an increase in freshwater temperatures across British Columbia, we may see a more widespread spread. Modeling shows that even Alaskan reservoirs could be affected. However, there is a glimmer of hope: so far, only genetically identical male jellyfish have been observed. This means that the jellyfish cannot complete sexual reproduction and their adaptability to new environments is limited, which will hinder their spread.
Next Steps
The first priority is to accurately map the actual distribution of peach blossom jellyfish in British Columbia, including their range. To achieve this, the researchers plan to use environmental DNA, a tool that can identify DNA in water samples. This will allow them to determine the presence of jellyfish even if they cannot see them.
The researchers are calling on the public to report sightings of peach blossom jellyfish. Individuals who discover jellyfish can submit reports to iNaturalist, the BC Invasive Species Council, or the researchers themselves. This will help answer fundamental questions about the jellyfish and their impact on British Columbia’s ecosystems and species, leading to more informed management recommendations.
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