Stay away from these jellyfishes

Photographed by Yunus Pense

Pelagia noctiluca (Forskal)

With its 10-15 cm body size, mushroom shape and 8 small extensions hanging from its body as well as 4 big extensions around the mouth, Pelagia noctiluca looks pleasant. However, it is a poisonous and dangerous species of jellyfishes. Due to its phosphorescence feature, it emits a small amount of light under the sea. They occur until 50 m depth. Its color can change from reddish yellow to purple. These animals particularly occur in the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, especially during the summer session. Its’ extensions have burning capsules and in the case of a strike, it can hurt. These extensions can be 50 cm long so it’s necessary to keep a distance. If the animal is touched, it can result in swollen body parts and rashes, as well as a burning sensation and fever. Upon contact, swollen or hurt tissue should be washed with lemon or vinegar as quickly as possible. Don’t scratch or press the wound. If pain and swelling continue, go to the nearest health care center.

Photographed by Prof. Dr. Bayram Öztürk

Rhopilema nomadica

Rhopilema nomadica is mostly unknown to our coasts. Its appearance is similar to a gong with no extensions. Burning capsules are present on the mouth and around the umbrella. This species came to our seas from the Suez Canal and they feed on planktons. Rhopilema nomadica can reproduce both sexually and asexually so it has a high potential for reproduction. It’s usually observed in short periods from June to September, and it creates a potential danger for swimmers, fishermen and divers.

Photographed by: Mert Keçeci

Cassiopea andromeda (Forsskal, 1775)

Cassiopea andromeda has come from the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean. The first record came from Sarsala Bay in Fethiye, Göcek. Afterward, 6 more samples were acquired from the Iskenderun Bay. Resident populations have been recorded in Ölüdeniz Lagoon. Cassiopea andromeda was first observed in the shallow part of Oludeniz Lagoon in August 2000. It was observed frequently between 2003 and 2004. It comes to the lagoon via currents, ballast waters or ephira larvae. Cassiopea andromeda occupies rocky shores or muddy-silt bottoms of max. 6m depth and 4-10 m depth of shallow water. It can be distributed in different types of habitat. This species possesses toxin-producing nematocysts that can cause pain, skin rashes, and itches, as well as vomiting and skeletal pain upon contact.

Photographed by Prof. Dr. Bayram Öztürk

Chrysaora hysoscella

Burning capsule cells explode when they touch the skin and release their toxins, eventually causing a burning sensation and itchiness. Afterward, itchiness, pain and rashes take its place. Blister and bleeding can be seen. Even if it is assumed that this pain can go away with scratching and massages, it can cause asthma, nausea and stomach cramp in some people. If this jellyfish touches your skin, you should not scratch or massage it. If there are any unexploded capsules, a towel should be used to clean the skin. Washing the burning part with freshwater will exacerbate the problem because it will cause the intact capsules to explode. Cleaning the area affected by the jellyfish with ammonia or vinegar can bring some relief. In case of serious injuries, please do see a doctor to prevent dire consequences.