Are there any dangeruos jellyfish in Malta?

Answer 1

The most common jellyfish in Malta is Pelagia Noctiluca, known as the Mauve Stinger. It is pink and its bell is about 7-10cm in diameter. However their tentacles are hardly seen and can be metres long. I've encountered specimens with tenticles about 3 m long. However their sting, although painful, is not usually fatal, and scars usually fade away after about a week or two. I' ve also encountered species which look very similar to the Box Jellyfish. I do not know what they actually are , as they are not listed in books of Maltese Marine Species, however they are NOT the box jellyfish, as box jellyfish are the most dangerous jellyfish and their sting is fatal, however I got stung twice by this jellyfish, but I didn't die. The pain was not as bad as that of the Mauve Stinger. However I would advise that you don't dive with your eyes open. I used to do so , but I don't anymore as these jellyfish and their tentacles are transperant - very difficilut to be seen if you are diving with your eyes open. Stings from both jellyfish can be treated successfully with vinegar. Also, there are rumours that the Portuguese Man O war has entered the islands' waters. This has a very painful sting, much more painful than the mauve stinger, and it can be fatal if you are allergic to its venom. It is advised that you seek medical help immediately if you start having breathing problems after you are stung. In this case, you should not apply vinegar, it is said to worsen the sting. Some sites say it is adviseable to apply ice on it , others say warm water at 45degrees. As I have never been stung by such a jellyfish before, I do not know which is best. :D What I have to say is - you shouldn't discourage yourself from swimming in Maltese waters because of the jellyfish. I know I won't! Have a nice summer :D