In the Bay of Kotor, one of the most recognizable jellyfish in the Mediterranean - the compass jellyfish - has been spotted more and more frequently these days.
Although it appears elegant in the sea, this species can cause unpleasant skin reactions due to the stinging cells on its long tentacles, reports Radio Kotor.
It has a bell-shaped head, usually 10–15 cm in diameter, but can grow up to 30 cm. It is recognizable by its radial dark stripes, which gave it the name compass jellyfish. Its body is adorned with long tentacles that it uses to capture food, while on the edge of the bell, on long whitish tentacles, there are stinging cells that can cause redness, pain and irritation when in contact with the skin.
The compass jellyfish was first registered in our country in 2006, and since 2013 we have recorded it every year, most often from April to early June. This year it appeared a little later, probably due to the warm autumn, mild winter and increased precipitation, which affected its life cycle.
Radio Kotor reports that the compass jellyfish is very tolerant of temperature, but salinity plays a key role in its reproduction. Therefore, weather conditions, rainfall, as well as changes in sea currents and temperature, affect when and how many there will be. It is usually more often seen in bays as a result of waves and sea currents.
What to do after contact with a jellyfish?
Rinse with seawater, carefully removing any remaining tentacles using a card or other object.
If available, rinse with a vinegar solution (4–6%) or baking soda in seawater.
Apply a cold compress (ice wrapped in a cloth, no direct contact with fresh water).
Apply antihistamine creams if necessary.
In case of a more severe reaction - contact a healthcare facility or pharmacy.
Any encounter with this or similar jellyfish should be reported to the Institute of Marine Biology.
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