Why Jellyfish Need a Special Aquarium Design
Jellyfish are among the most mesmerizing creatures in the ocean; graceful, fluid, and almost otherworldly in the way they move. But beneath their elegance lies an important truth: jellyfish are also some of the most delicate marine animals to keep in captivity.
Unlike fish, they cannot survive in a standard aquarium. Their anatomy and movement require an environment built specifically for them one that replicates the natural rhythm of ocean currents. This is why jellyfish need a special aquarium design, one that combines precision engineering, biology, and artistry.
Understanding the Nature of Jellyfish
Jellyfish don’t swim like fish; they drift.
They are made of more than 90% water, with soft, gelatinous bodies and no bones, fins, or shells. This makes them highly sensitive to water movement and contact with surfaces. In a regular rectangular tank, water tends to stagnate in corners or create uneven currents, which can trap or injure a jellyfish.
Even the smallest design flaw: a sharp edge, a strong current, or trapped air bubbles can be fatal. A jellyfish aquarium must therefore create an environment that allows continuous, gentle motion without friction or turbulence.
The Science of Flow: The Kreisel Design
At the heart of every professional jellyfish aquarium is the kreisel system (from the German word “carousel”).
A kreisel aquarium features a circular or semi-circular flow pattern that keeps jellyfish suspended in the water column, allowing them to drift effortlessly. This laminar flow prevents them from sinking or colliding with the tank walls, while also ensuring consistent oxygenation and water quality.
In essence, the kreisel design mimics the natural ocean currents jellyfish rely on for movement, it’s both an art and a science.
Key Design Features That Make Jellyfish Tanks Unique
1. Rounded Corners and Smooth Surfaces
Any sharp corner or surface can damage a jellyfish’s soft tissue. Jellyfish aquariums are designed with curved interiors, smooth finishes, and rounded edges to ensure uninterrupted flow and safety.
2. Balanced Water Circulation
The flow must be strong enough to keep the jellyfish suspended, yet gentle enough not to tear or deform them. Professional systems use laminar (non-turbulent) flow, achieved through carefully engineered nozzles and flow diffusers.
3. Bubble-Free Filtration Systems
Air bubbles can become trapped under a jellyfish’s bell, causing stress or injury. A bubble-free life support system (LSS) ensures that all filtration, aeration, and oxygen exchange happen externally, keeping the display tank calm and clear.
4. Temperature and Salinity Control
Jellyfish thrive in stable conditions. Most systems integrate automated temperature regulation, UV sterilization, and protein skimmers to maintain the delicate marine balance that keeps jellyfish healthy.
5. Lighting and Aesthetics
Soft LED lighting is essential not just for visibility but for creating the iconic glow that makes jellyfish aquariums so captivating. Professionals choose low-heat, color-adjustable lighting to highlight the natural translucence of the animals without affecting water temperature.
Why Professional Design Matters
Designing for jellyfish is not just about keeping them alive — it’s about allowing them to move as they were meant to.
A professionally engineered jellyfish system ensures that:
Flow velocity is precisely tuned for each species.
Maintenance access is built into the design.
All components work together for both beauty and biological function.
At RedFin, we apply hydrodynamic modeling and years of expertise to build jellyfish aquariums that are as functional as they are visually stunning. Each system is tested, balanced, and tailored to its environment whether it’s a public aquarium, a hotel lobby, or a private collection.
Final Thoughts
Jellyfish may appear effortless as they drift through the water, but their survival depends entirely on the precision of their environment. That’s why they need a special aquarium design — one that supports their fragility while showcasing their beauty.
At RedFin Aquarium Design, our approach is built around this balance. Through expert engineering, sustainable practices, and a deep respect for marine life, we design and build jellyfish aquariums that embody both science and serenity.