Craspedacusta: A reflection on pure water

Craspedacusta, a type of freshwater jellyfish sometimes referred to as a "panda in the water", is found inhabiting some lakes in communities in NETDA. [Photo provided to NETDA]

Craspedacusta, a type of freshwater jellyfish sometimes referred to as a "panda in the water", has been found inhabiting some lakes in communities of the Nantong Economic & Technological Development Area (NETDA), according to local media on June 17.

The jellyfish, with 550 million years of history, lives only in water that is pollution-free. The habitat of the craspedacusta observed at the site was a closed artificial lake with clear water and a transparency of about 50.

A large number of craspedacusta groups could be seen swimming on the water's surface. After on-site sampling, monitoring personnel took some samples back to the laboratory for microscopic observation and photography, and analyzed the physical and chemical indexes of the water body.

The water quality of the sections above the examination of the three provinces in the district is in line with the water quality standard of class III and above, and the proportion of excellent grade is 100 percent. The examination sections of the tributaries into the river all eliminate the inferior grade.

These craspedacusta groups are the first recorded in the coastal area of the Yangtze River Delta region, and showcase clearly the improvements that have been made in the region's environment.