Oklahoma Lakes Have Jellyfish Now, Apparently

Oklahoma has seen its fair share of strange things in the water over the years. From giant catfish stories to gar big enough to swallow a duck whole, nothing surprises anyone anymore. Still, finding out that some Oklahoma lakes are home to jellyfish feels like one of those “you’ve got to be kidding me” moments.

Where Did Oklahoma’s Jellyfish Come From?

According to a recent news story, freshwater jellyfish have been spotted in several Oklahoma lakes, quietly floating along like they own the place. They’re tiny, about the size of a quarter, and come from China, which naturally raises the question... How did they end up here?

Here's a shocking answer... Nobody really knows.

That being said, there are a few theories. Most notable, most believe they came in on aquarium plants and ended up getting dumped into lakes a long time ago. I know that's not a definitive statement, but like most invasive species stories, it probably started with a small accident that spread over time.

Here's the even stranger part... Freshwater jellyfish aren't exactly new in Oklahoma. They've been documented in the Sooner State as far back as the 1930s, though it was more of a funny curiosity back then, and they pop up here and there when the conditions are just right before disappearing again.

Are Freshwater Jellyfish Dangerous?

These jellyfish don’t sting, so they’re not much of a threat to swimmers, but that’s hardly the point. Oklahoma wildlife officials have been fighting a never-ending battle against uninvited guests for decades.

Oklahoma’s Long Battle With Invasive Species

I think Zebra mussels are probably the biggest problem Oklahoma lakes have had during my lifetime. They reproduce like crazy and cling to everything. They've clogged boat motors and water pipes across the state and even nearly completely covered a rod and reel we lost to the depths once. Took us a week to fish it out, covered in those little mussels.

Hydrilla is another big problem. It's an invasive aquatic plant that chokes out native vegetation, but it's fantastic if you know how to fish it. Same with hydromilfoil. Great stuff to fish in, and the fact that jet-skiers and wakeboats avoid it like the plague is just a cherry on top.

Just Another Lake Surprise in Oklahoma

Is this the beginning of a jellyfish invasion? Nah, just a reminder that our lakes are full of surprises.