The e-Jelly, is an optical lure that is designed to mimic the bioluminescent display of the common deep-sea jellyfish Atolla wyvillei. The display, known as a bioluminescent burglar alarm, consists of a wave of light that pinwheels around the surface of the jellyfish’s bell (the upper, gelatinous portion of a jellyfish). It is believed to be a last ditch “scream” for help when the jelly is caught by a predator. The display serves to attract the attention of a larger predator that may attack the jellyfish’s attacker.
This lure is mounted onto the Medusa Lander and is used to attract giant squid so that scientists can film and better understand the behavior of these elusive creatures.