World's biggest captive jellyfish given to aquarium

A giant Lion's Mane jellyfish found by a fisherman is claimed to be the biggest captive jellyfish in the Earth.

The jellyfish has a fourteen inch diameter bell and pink tentacles.

It was given to The Deep aquarium in Hull after it was found off the East Yorkshire coast.

Deep aquarist Tom Rowe said: ''We were delighted to receive this wonderful animal. It's the first time I've seen a Lion's Mane in the region and it is by far the largest jellyfish ever displayed at The Deep. As far we know its the largest jellyfish in captivity.''

The largest Lion's Mane ever recorded was washed up in Massachusetts Bay in 1870, with a bell over 7ft in diameter and tentacles longer than 120ft.

These jellyfish are the largest known species in the world and are usually found in cold waters such as the Arctic, North Atlantic and North Pacific. They are cannibals and feed on other jellyfish such as moon jellies.

Mr Rowe said that despite a small tear in its bell, which the team will keep an eye on, the jellyfish is very active and thriving in its new home.

The sea creature will be on public display by the weekend.