Holidaymakers have been warned to be wary of venomous creatures making their way into popular Spanish beauty spots
Spanish authorities have issued a warning after a throng of venomous creatures invaded some beaches. A raft of ‘fried egg jellyfish’ descended on the popular Murcia region in recent days. The holiday destination has seen a sharp rise in the number of the sea creatures this year and is believed be a result of the rising levels of the water temperature.
They have also been spotted on the coast in La Manga, according to local reports. The jellyfish, who get their nickname from a distinctive appearance are actually called ‘Cotylorhiza tuberculata’, are known to cause irritation to the skin with red marks and a tingling feeling.
With the rise in jellyfish visits, the Department of Environment has acted to protect seaside-goers by installing anti-jellyfish nets. They have been installed in select spots across San Pedro del Pinatar and La Manga’s northern end at places such as La Mota, Villananitos, La Puntica, Veneziola, and Pantalan.
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Those stung by the sea creatures are advised to seek treatment advice from lifeguards or rescue service on the beach. In the event that they’re not present then people have been told to remove any tentacles that have stayed attached to the skin and wash the affected area.
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Should the pain persist, those affected have been warned not to irritate the skin further by itching or use some commonly suggested tips such as applying vinegar or urine. Instead, one of the best ways to treat the pain is to wrap ice inside a cloth or towel and apply it to the affected area.
One thing that sets ‘fried egg jellyfish’ apart from the rest of its species is their ability to swiftly move about the ocean. Oceana.org saying: “Despite its preference for spending most of its time motionless, the jellyfish can swim actively.
“The smooth rounded bell at the top can reach up to 35cm in diameter and pulses as it swims. The ends of this bell extend into sub-rectangular, often uneven lappets.”
