As a lake researcher, I have in recent years had quite a few people ask me whether jellyfish really do live in lakes. Some people think they are seeing things, or that their friends or family are. I’ve even heard of marital spats over the issue! So, are jellyfish present in Canadian freshwater lakes or not?
Yes, jellyfish do exist in lakes here in Canada. These organisms are related to saltwater jellyfish (Cnidaria), only much smaller. The reasons why more people are suddenly becoming aware of these creatures is simply due to their growing numbers — numbers that are on the rise due to climate change.
The bottom line is that freshwater jellyfish are real, and Canadians need to get used to their growing presence in our lakes as the planet warms.
