Jellyfish practically disappear from the Catalan beaches due to bad weather in July
Marine biologists insist that the presence of jellyfish in Catalan waters is similar to previous years but that sea currents are not bringing them to the shore. Rain water also appears to have helped keep the jellyfish away, forming a layer on the surface of the sea which is less rich in salt; this has restricted the movement of the jellyfish.
Barcelona (ACN). - The unusually bad weather seen in July has caused a lack of jellyfish to be washed up on the beaches of Catalonia. The Institute of Marine Sciences from the National Research Council (CSIC) has said that the amount of jellyfish in Catalan waters is no different when compared to other years but this year their distance from the coast has increased. Marine Biologist Antoni Canepa told ACN that summer storms, featuring strong coastal winds, running parallel to the beaches, have pushed marine creatures further from the land.
Canepa stressed that the absence of jellyfish on the coast does not mean that there are less jellyfish than in previous years; rather that the unique Mediterranean Sea currents that Catalonia has experienced this year has created this phenomenon. Rain water also appears to have helped keep the jellyfish away, forming a layer on the surface of the sea which is less rich in salt; this has restricted the movement of the jellyfish. “There is a similar amount of jellyfish, but less individuals arrive at the beach”, he summarised.
Although this activity is under scrutiny by marine biologists, it has been celebrated by many Catalans and tourists who can enjoy time on the water without being interrupted by the annoying creatures. Barcelona alone boasts over 4.5 kilometres of beaches, a main attraction particularly in the summer months. The entire stretch of Barcelona's beaches are currently jellyfish free according to the Catalan Ministry of the Environment.
Catalonia is home to several species of jellyfish. However, the number of individuals that each season arrive at the shore cannot be predicted; neither their type. Marine biologists from the Institute of Marine Sciences National Research Council (CSIC) and the Catalan Water Agency (ACA) explained that the number and type of jellyfish varies year by year. As Canepa told ACN, one year you could find the type of jellyfish as dominant only to see it "replaced the next year".
For this reason, the Jellyfish Project, which was initiated in 2007, has set out to learn more about the fascinating lifecycle of the invertebrates, in an attempt to derive better management skills for their protection and the protection of the public. This includes a campaign of public education to enable people to be able to tell the difference between different types of jellyfish.
Although jellyfish never attack people, not possessing the capacity to steer their movements with accuracy, many species possess a sting which is used to defend themselves and assist in capturing prey. Contact with jellyfish tentacles causes a burning sensation and a rash. Thankfully, this year the Red Cross has reported a 25% drop in jellyfish related injuries compared to last year, with fewer people being stung whilst on the beach.
Despite the reduced risks people are still instructed not to touch jellyfish and to refrain from swimming if jellyfish are spotted in the sea. If stung, people are advised to go to one of the many beach stations found along the Catalan coastline and seek assistance. If this is not available, applying saltwater, vinegar and covered ice (unless also made out of salt water) should calm the sting.