Many people feel confused when they hear the words starfish and jellyfish. Both names include the word “fish,” but are they really fish? This question is very common, especially for students, kids, and people who love sea life. In this article, we will explain the truth in easy English, using simple and ranked headings, so everyone can understand clearly.
1. Understanding What a Real Fish Is
Before we decide which one is a fish, we must understand what makes an animal a fish.
A real fish usually has:
- A backbone (spine)
- Gills to breathe underwater
- Fins to swim
- Scales (in most cases)
- A body made for swimming
Examples of real fish are salmon, tuna, shark, and goldfish. Fish belong to a group called vertebrates, which means they have a backbone.
Now let’s look at starfish and jellyfish one by one.
2. What Is a Starfish?
A starfish is also known as a sea star. It is commonly found in oceans around the world, especially near coral reefs and rocky shores.
Key Facts About Starfish
- Starfish do not have a backbone
- They usually have five arms, but some have more
- They move using tiny tube feet
- They do not have fins or gills like real fish
- They belong to a group called echinoderms
Starfish have a very interesting ability. If they lose an arm, they can regrow it over time. This makes them special but still not fish.
👉 Important Point: A starfish is not a fish at all.
3. What Is a Jellyfish?
Jellyfish are soft, jelly-like creatures that float and move slowly in the sea. They are known for their stinging tentacles.
Key Facts About Jellyfish
- Jellyfish have no backbone
- They have no brain or heart
- Their body is made mostly of water
- They do not have fins, scales, or gills
- They belong to a group called cnidarians
Jellyfish use their tentacles to catch food and protect themselves. Some jellyfish stings are harmless, while others can be very painful or even dangerous.
👉 Important Point: A jellyfish is also not a fish.
4. Why Are They Called Starfish and Jellyfish?
This is where most of the confusion comes from.
Reason for the Names
- Starfish got its name because its shape looks like a star
- Jellyfish got its name because its body looks like jelly and it lives in water
Long ago, people named sea animals based on how they looked, not on science. Today, scientists know much more, but the old names are still used in daily life.
5. Which One Is Actually a Fish?
Now let’s answer the main question clearly.
The Correct Answer
❌ Starfish – Not a fish
❌ Jellyfish – Not a fish
✅ Neither starfish nor jellyfish is a real fish
Both animals do not meet the basic rules of being a fish. They do not have a backbone, fins, or gills.
6. Simple Comparison Table (Easy Understanding)
FeatureStarfishJellyfishReal FishBackboneNoNoYesFinsNoNoYesGillsNoNoYesBody TypeHard skinSoft jellyScalesFish or NotNot a fishNot a fishFish
7. What Are Their Correct Scientific Names?
To avoid confusion, scientists prefer these names:
- Starfish → Sea Star
- Jellyfish → Jelly
These names help people understand that they are not true fish.
8. Why Is This Question Important?
Understanding the difference helps in:
- School exams and quizzes
- Learning marine biology
- Teaching kids correct science facts
- Avoiding common myths about sea animals
Knowing the truth also shows how science changes old ideas into correct knowledge.
9. Fun Facts About Starfish and Jellyfish
Starfish Fun Facts
- They can live for many years
- They have eyes at the tips of their arms
- They can turn their stomach inside out to eat
Jellyfish Fun Facts
- Jellyfish have lived on Earth for over 500 million years
- Some jellyfish can glow in the dark
- One type of jellyfish can live forever under the right conditions
10. Final Conclusion
Which of These is a Fish: Starfish or JellyFish? Even though their names include the word “fish,” starfish and jellyfish are not fish at all. They are very different sea creatures with unique bodies and lifestyles. Real fish have backbones, fins, and gills, which these two do not have.
So, the next time someone asks:
“Which of these is a fish: starfish or jellyfish?”
You can confidently say:
👉 Neither of them is a fish.
FAQs:
Q1. Is a starfish a real fish?
No, a starfish is not a real fish. It is an echinoderm and has no backbone.
Q2. Is a jellyfish considered a fish?
No, a jellyfish is not a fish. It belongs to the cnidarian group.
Q3. Why do people still call them fish?
Because of old naming habits and their ocean habitat.
Q4. What should we call starfish instead?
The correct name is sea star.
Q5. Do starfish or jellyfish have bones?
No, neither of them has bones or a backbone.
