GALVESTON, Texas — Researchers at Texas A&M University at Galveston announced on April 9, 2026, the discovery of a new species of moon jellyfish, Aurelia profunda, in the Gulf of Mexico, following years of laboratory study and field research.
Associate professor Maria Pia Miglietta said the finding demonstrates that scientists continue to identify new species even within well-studied groups such as moon jellyfish.
The university publicized the discovery one day before the conclusion of Artemis II mission, which marked the first crewed lunar journey in more than 50 years.
Miglietta said the identification of Aurelia profunda brings the number of recognized moon jellyfish species in the Gulf to four. She said the species differs from others due to its smaller size and offshore habitat, as most moon jellyfish are typically found near coastlines.
A student discovered the specimen in July 2017 during a research expedition off the coast of Louisiana and transported it to a laboratory for analysis.
Researchers found the jellyfish contained larvae and cultivated them into polyps, allowing them to observe the organism’s full life cycle. They later documented the findings in a peer-reviewed study published in late 2025.
Miglietta said scientists have identified 28 genetically distinct moon jellyfish species worldwide, with 13 now fully described across all life stages, including Aurelia profunda.
The discovery adds to ongoing research on marine biodiversity in the Gulf of Mexico.