Simon L
14 March 2018
Following the recent surge in jellyfish along the coastline of the UK particularly in Cornwall, Stay In Cornwall has put together a guide for keeping safe from the creatures while visiting the beach.
The moon jellyfish has been the most spotted so far this year and does have a very mild sting, although this is easily avoidable and causes minimal harm to humans.
Matt Fletcher from Stay In Cornwall said: “We want to put the minds of holidaymakers at ease by showing that jellyfish are not as harmful as they may appear. Swimming in the sea is one of the most enjoyable parts of a coastal holiday and one that should not be avoided simply because of jellyfish in the water.”
The guide itself contains useful information such as the fact that not all jellyfish found in the UK are able to sting humans. Also, advice from the NHS suggests that urinating on the affected area can, in fact, make the situation worse and instead to use shaving gel and ibuprofen to help ease pain and swelling.
The guide also contains information such as facts that the origins of jellyfish date back more than 500 million years, are made up of more than 90% water and also have no brains or bones.
Jellyfish are also the staple diet of the endangered leatherback turtle and the giant sunfish, species which regularly visit Cornwall's waters to feed.
Dr Matthew Witt, Lecturer in Natural Environment at the University of Exeter's campus in Cornwall said: “Jellyfish are an important part of our British wildlife and lead amazing lives - we see them year-round, but mostly in summer months and lots around the South West, this is a great place to see marine wildlife.
But remember to look and don't touch. If you do happen to come into contact with a jellyfish then follow these simple instructions. Also, please take time to inform the Marine Conservation Society of your sighting as this information will help us to understand the health of our coastal seas.”
Read the Marine Conservation Society Jellyfish survey.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.