THE DISCOVERY of a new species of jellyfish has sparked excitement for CSIRO scientist Lisa-ann Gershwin.
The jellyfish, known as "lion's mane" has been researched for several years, but only now has been discovered in Tasmanian waters.
A gigantic specimen was discovered by children at Howden in the state's South, and Dr Gershwin said that was what science was all about.
"I want to encourage the public to find neat stuff," she said.
The jellyfish species has not been spotted in the North of the state yet, but people should keep their eye out.
Dr Gershwin has chosen a name for the jellyfish but it cannot be released until her research paper is accepted.
The jellyfish can sting, but is not life threatening.