The Ctenophores are a small group of medusa-like animals, commonly called comb-jellies, which often become very abundant in the bays.

The eerie light of their bioluminescence is a common sight to flounder fishermen. Ctenophores can be recognized by their eight rows of cilia. The beating of these tiny cilia propels the ctenophore through the water and brings it into contact with its planktonic food. In contrast to the sticky cells which trap plankters.

Two species are found along the northwestern Gulf Coast, one predominates in summer and the other in winter. Unlike the cnidarians, ctenophores rarely have stinging cells.