Work

Gas bubble disease in the upside-down jellyfish Cassiopea sp.: Experimental induction and histopathological characterization

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Jellyfish are known to be difficult species to breed, yet little is known about the diseases that affect them. This study investigated the behavioral and histopathological changes caused by gas bubble disease (GBD) in upside-down jellyfish Cassiopea sp. METHODS: Upside-down jellyfish were assigned to control and microbubble-exposed tanks (n = 7 each; 36 L size). Microbubbles were supplied to the experimental group tank by inducing an insufficient water level in the sump tank, which allowed air to be entrained into the return pump. RESULT: All upside-down jellyfish maintained in the microbubble-exposed tank exhibited signs of GBD. Gas bubbles were observed both grossly and histologically, along with chronic lesions, which progressed to bell ulceration. Behavioral changes, including loss of equilibrium and abnormal pulsation, were observed. These results demonstrate that excessive microbubbles induce GBD. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that excessive microbubble exposure can experimentally induce GBD in upside-down jellyfish and highlights the need to monitor gas supersaturation during jellyfish rearing.

Source: Journal of Aquatic Animal Health

DOI: 10.1093/jahafs/vsag015

Authors: Young Jin Ryu, Ji-Hyung Park, Seung Hyeok Seok, Sang Wha Kim

Institutions: Kangwon National University, Seoul National University

Language: English

Topic: Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology

Subfield: Paleontology

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life below water

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,500