Jellyfish are not commonly seen to be kept as pets. They are Sea creatures that require extra care. Besides, they find it often difficult to fit in outside the sea, which makes people think, “Is it cruel to keep jellyfish as pets?”
The answer is a big no. Jellyfish do not have a brain and are not aware of their surroundings. They are more like plants than fish. Moreover, most jellyfish cannot even reach adulthood in the wild due to predators. Captivity at least ensures a longer life for them.
You should create a good environment for them in your aquarium. One that has the proper temperature, right water quality, and food source. If you can do it, then it will not be cruel.
Is Petting Jellyfish Good for Them?
Whether you pet a jellyfish, good or bad, depends on the care you can take. If you can take proper care of them, then it is a good thing for them. This is good for jellyfish because:
1. Protects Them from Predators
Jellyfish are a common and favorite food of many sea predators. Sea turtles like to have jellyfish. Though jellyfish have stinging cells, they do not affect turtles. The same goes for sunfish, which consume a significant amount. It is a regular part of their diet.
Apart from them, there are some other sea fishes, like butterfish and mackerels, that eat jellyfish. Even there are some sea birds like gulls and terns that feed on jellyfish if they are around. Studies show that most jelly is eaten by predators before they are mature. Keeping them as pets will save them from such predators.
2. Stable Environment Condition
The sudden change in the sea environment often hampers the life of jellyfish. With proper care, this will not happen in captivity. They can experience a stable temperature and water quality in a well-maintained aquarium.
Factors to Consider Before Buying A Jellyfish
There are certain things that you should be aware of. Do not just run to the market to buy a jellyfish just because it is not cruel. Consider the following factors before making your decision.
1. The Maintenance Cost for Jellyfish Is High
Jellyfish comes at a high price. But that is not all. You will also need to spend a good amount of money on their maintenance. First of all, you need to set up a perfect tank for them. You cannot keep them in any tank. Their tank should be of circular shape without any corners.
A circular tank is not the only thing you will have to buy. Jellyfish require a stable temperature. It should suddenly rise or fall. Therefore, you will need a water heater to maintain a balanced temperature all the time.
Additionally, you have to be careful about the chemical composition of the water in the tank. You will find different brands selling special tanks for jellyfish, and they come at a high price. Some of them even cost more than a thousand.
These are not a one-time cost either. You will have to spend money on a regular basis to clean the tank to buy or renew different devices and chemicals. Keeping a jellyfish is quite expensive indeed. Can you afford it? If yes, then there are some other factors as well.
2. Do You Think You Can Keep A Pet Jellyfish?
Keeping jellyfish as pets requires experience or professional training. You should know what you are up for. Jellyfish are not easy to take care of, like dogs or cats. They are much more difficult than petting a goldfish or other small fish.
You will need to change or adjust chemical compounds in the tank to keep them comfortable. These are some serious challenges. Additionally, you will need an advanced knowledge of marine biology and water chemistry. If you lack such knowledge, then you are qualified.
You can buy a jellyfish and a tank for them with money. But without proper knowledge, you will not be able to keep them alive for long. Now, that will be cruel.
3. Jellyfish Needs A Lot of Attention
You will have to spend a good amount of time feeding your jellyfish. They need to be fed several times every day. You will have to follow a strict routine about feeding them. This is often difficult for people who work outside.
There are some other responsibilities, too. You have to check the water quality regularly. The water needs to be changed on a regular basis, and it is mandatory. You can show excuses like you are tired today. The changing of the water is a lengthy process and will consume a good portion of your time.
If you are a busy person with outdoor jobs, then it will be a challenge for you to look after a jellyfish. Reluctance to take good care of them can result in their death.
4. They Are Not Actually Pets
Now, here is the most important thing. You already know the money fact, along with time and expertise. Maybe you can make some compromises. But is it really worth it? At the end of the day, jellyfish do not become ideal pets. They will not engage in physical or emotional contact with you. It is like keeping a beauty ornament or a showpiece. If you are okay with it, then you can proceed.
Why Should You Keep Jellyfish as a Pet?
Is it cruel to keep jellyfish as pets? You already got the answer that it depends on you and how you treat them. But why go through all the hassles? Well, petting a jellyfish will benefit you in some ways, such as:
- Jellyfish are beautiful. You can get rid of tiredness by watching them move with such grace. It is a mesmerizing experience to watch them move around.
- Though they need regular feeding, it can be done by other family members. Excluding the regular water changes, you will not have too many other things for them.
- Jellyfish are quite animals. They will not make any noise when you are working. If you are looking for a patient and lovely pet, jellyfish can be a great choice.
- They are not demanding. You need to feed them regularly, several times a day. However, they will not drag you to play with them. They are not going to pull you to wake up.
- It makes you special. Not too many people keep jellyfish as pets. Having one will make a celebrity of sorts in your circle.
- Jellyfish can live up to five years in suitable environments. The lifespan is long enough for aquatic animals. If you want to have a pet for a long time, then you can consider having a jellyfish.
Disadvantages of Keeping a Jellyfish as a Pet
There are some cons of having jellyfish as pets, along with the benefits. You need to judge both pros and cons before making your decision. The disadvantages include the following:
- The maintenance cost for jellyfish is very high. It becomes challenging unless you are wealthy.
- You cannot play with them like you can with dogs and cats.
- They are delicate creatures and can easily get injured or killed.
- They are not interactive animals and will not establish any bond with you.
- The lack of ability to make noise might sometimes make you feel lonely. It would have been better if they could make some occasional noise.
- Some jellyfish are dangerous and can sting you. Since some jellyfish are poisonous, you should be careful while touching them.
- They produce a large amount of waste. Therefore, you need to change the water on a regular basis. It becomes difficult to manage the waste as well.
Different Types of Jellyfish Suitable for Home Aquariums
Since you are optimistic about pet jellyfish, you must educate yourself about different types of jellyfish. Some of them are bioluminescent, while some of them are like corals.
- Moon Jellyfish: They can be a great addition to your aquarium for their bioluminescence. It makes them charming and relaxing to watch at night. They can live up to 2 years if taken care of properly.
- Crystal Jellyfish: They look stunningly beautiful and also are bioluminescent. They can grow up to 18 inches. However, they are more difficult to look after than moon jellyfish.
- Sea Nettles: Most people consider them the most beautiful species of jellyfish. They are white in color, grow up to 24 inches, and can survive up to four years. Nonetheless, they are not suitable for inexperienced people because of their aggressive nature.
- Upside Down Jellyfish: They have an aesthetic beauty in their appearance. Their habit of swimming upside down makes them adorable and interesting to watch. If you are new to pet jellyfish, then you can opt for them as they are slightly easier to take care of.
- Fried Egg Jellyfish: They get the name for their appearance. It seems like a fried egg is floating. They are smaller in size than most other jellyfish and are comparatively easy to be managed by newbie jellyfish owners.
The Necessary Equipment You Will Need
If you have decided which jellyfish to pet, you can now focus on what things you need to arrange. You need to manage all the necessary equipment before bringing the jelly to ensure its healthy and happy life.
- Purchase a circular tank without any corners or sharp edges to prevent injury to the jellyfish.
- Invest in a high-quality filtration system to maintain water quality and remove waste.
- A heater and a chiller to maintain a stable water temperature
- Water quality testing kits to regularly monitor pH, salinity, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
- Manage a high-quality marine salt mix to maintain the appropriate salinity for jellyfish.
- Necessary foods. Depending on the jellyfish species, you may need a supply of suitable plankton or other small marine organisms.
- A hydrometer to measure the salinity of the water accurately.
- Keep a jellyfish first aid kit with vinegar or specialized jellyfish sting treatment in case of accidental stings.
Tips on How to Keep Your Pet Healthy and Happy
It requires attention and proper care to keep your pet healthy and happy. Here are some effective tips to pet a jellyfish properly:
- Understand the dietary needs of your pet jellyfish and provide suitable food. You must maintain the right quantity and frequency.
- Regularly test, and you should maintain the water quality in your jellyfish tank to ensure the correct salinity, pH, and temperature.
- Spend time observing your jellyfish to detect any signs of stress or illness.
- Don’t overcrowd the tank. Make sure there is enough space for the jellyfish to move freely.
- Keep the tank clean by regularly removing debris and changing water.
- Handle your jellyfish with care, using soft nets or tools to avoid damaging their delicate bodies.
FAQs
How long do jellyfish last as pets?
The lifespan of jellyfish as pets depends on the particular species. With proper care, they can live from two to five years. This is much longer than they can live in the open sea.
What is the safest jellyfish to own?
Moon Jellyfish are considered the safest jellyfish to own. They are also easy to look after by new pet owners. They are not poisonous and so can be handled gently.
Can jellyfish feel pain?
Current study suggests that jellyfish cannot feel pain like us humans. They do not have a proper nervous system. Instead, they are 95% water without a brain. They can only sense their environment.
Is jellyfish a good pet?
Keeping a jellyfish as a pet depends on your personal preference. If you want an interactive pet, then they are not a good option. However, if you want something that will not need much attention and will enhance the beauty of your place, then they are a pretty good option.
Can you touch pet jellyfish?
Touching pet jellyfish is generally not recommended. Jellyfish have stinging tentacles that can release toxins. Though they are strong enough to cause any major injury, they can cause skin irritation.
Do jellyfish like humans?
Jellyfish do not have the capacity for emotions or preferences. They do not have the capability to like or dislike humans. They are simple, instinct-driven creatures and don’t form relationships.
Which jellyfish is friendly?
Jellyfish are not described as “friendly” or “unfriendly.” They lack the capacity for social behaviors or emotions. However, moon jellyfish are considered the safest ones to keep in a jellyfish aquarium as they are mostly nontoxic.
Can jellyfish see you?
Jellyfish do not have true eyes and cannot see in the way humans or some other animals do. They lack complex vision organs. However, some jellies have the capacity to see you in blurry images.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you are still not in a dilemma about, “Is it cruel to keep jellyfish as pets?” Both the pros and cons, along with the necessary maintenance, have been discussed here. If you think you can manage to keep them properly, then you can process them. There is nothing cruel about it.
