Rhodes: Tropical jellyfish alert that reaches a meter in diameter

The tropical Rhopilema nomadica that appeared in mid-March, has now been observed on several beaches of the island. As reported in a communication by Rhodes Hydrobiological Station, Rhopilema nomadica, also known as the nomadic jellyfish, has a hemispheric shape, transparent – blueish color and diameter usually 30-40 cm, although it can reach 1 meter. On the lower surface of her body, there are 8 tentacles with nematocysts, i.e. small stings with poison, which if they come into contact with the skin cause severe pain, burning sensation, itching and irritation of the area. So even if we find a jellyfish on the beach, we avoid contact with bare hands! Like all jellyfish, Rhopilema nomadica mentions the Hydrobiological Station of Rhodes is a planktonic organism that is drifting from sea currents, so its appearance is transient and is directly linked to the hydrodynamic conditions that prevail each time. Since the 1980s, periodic outbreaks of the population in the Greek seas have been recorded. At the same time, increasing the temperature of the planet, as well as the sea, due to climate change, creates favourable conditions for the emergence of such outbreaks in jellyfish populations. In addition, the reduction of sea turtles, whose jellyfish are basic food, and the overfishing of large pelagic fish, helps to increase the population of jellyfish. The staff of the Hydrobiological Station of Rhodes/ELKETH monitors and records daily the phenomenon and its evolution . Thanking all the citizens who send us daily recordings of this species The basic instructions in the event of an unpleasant “meet” with a Rhopilema nomadica jellyfish: Remove the tentacles or other remains of the jellyfish, using a plastic card, a tweezer, a wood or even a plastic shovel from a children’s game. We don’t touch the jellyfish with bare hands! Rinse with sea water, but without rubbing the area. We don’t use fresh water. We don’t cover the area with bandages. We do not use medicinal preparations without medical advice because symptoms may vary from person to person. If pain and swelling remain, we consult a doctor. In the event of an allergic person, this person must contact/go directly to a doctor or hospital.