One of the most dangerous Mediterranean Meduses has already reached the Spanish beaches, warns experts from the valence oceanogràfica. The Nocthiluca Pelogia, a light species known for the painful bites and the formation of large open sea groups, was again detected in several coastal areas of the Valencian community, according to the newspaper Ok Diario.
Alert on Spanish beaches
With increasing temperatures and the hottest sea, Spain’s coastal authorities are on alert due to the early arrival of Nocatiluca Pelagia, a medusa with high urticating power. According to Valencia Oceanogràfic, this species is responsible for most incidents with swimmers on the beaches of the Mediterranean, especially at the height of summer.
This jellyfish, with a translucent body with purple spots and long tentacles, represents a real threat to those who approach water, as referred to in the previously mentioned source. In addition to painful skin reactions, contact with tentacles can cause nausea, vomiting and, in extreme cases, severe allergic reactions.
Luminescence and complex reproduction
According to the Oceanogràfic Marine biologists, Nocthiluca Pelogia is also distinguished by its ability to emit light in dark environments, becoming visible at night to the smallest contact with waves or boats. This feature makes it sometimes appear in large concentrations that become visible in the open sea.
Its reproduction is considered one of the most complex among the species of meduses. Unlike most, it does not go through the fixed polyp phase. According to the same source, fertilization occurs directly on the water column, when the male releases sperm in the vicinity of the female, which collects them and generates microscopic eggs. Of these eggs are born larvae almost invisible to the naked eye, which develop slowly until they become small jellyfish, known as Ephiras.
Captive Success
Reproduction in a controlled environment is considered extremely difficult and, according to the above source, requires a thorough monitoring of the development phases. The larvae are watched to the microscope, often with special lights and dark environments due to their small size. The whole process, from egg deposition to the appearance of adult specimens, may take more than two months.
Despite these difficulties, the oceanogràfic has successfully maintain and reproduce more than 20 specimens of captive Nocytiluca, currently visible in the tank dedicated to the Mediterranean Sea. This feat is rare worldwide and has allowed investigators to better study the life cycle of this species, while warning the public to the risks of contact with these organisms.
Caution during the summer
With the confirmed presence of this Medusa in Spanish bathing zones, the authorities advise redoubled surveillance, especially on less guarded beaches. The most affected areas are usually signaled with flags or warnings at the entrance of the beach, being advised to bathe whenever detected, as referred to in the newspaper.
Experts also recommend that, in case of contact, if you avoid rubbing the affected area and seek medical assistance, especially if symptoms such as breathing difficulty or dizziness appear.
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