The basic instructions in case of an unpleasant “encounter” with a Rhopilema nomadica
The tropical jellyfish Rhopilema nomadica which appeared in Rose in mid-March, it has now been observed on several beaches of the island.
As the Hydrobiological Station of Rhodes states in its announcement Rhopilema nomadicaalso known as “nomadic” jellyfish, has a hemispherical shape, a transparent – bluish color and a diameter usually of 30-40 centimeters, although it can reach 1 meter.
On the lower surface of her body, there are 8 tentacles with nematocysts, i.e. small stingers with poisonwhich if they come into contact with the skin cause intense pain, burning sensation, itching and irritation of the area. That’s why, even if we find a jellyfish on the beach, we avoid contact with bare hands!
The basic instructions in case of an unpleasant “encounter” with a Rhopilema nomadica jellyfish:
– We remove the tentacles or other remnants of the jellyfish, using a plastic card, tweezers, a stick or even a plastic shovel from a children’s toy. We don’t touch the jellyfish with our bare hands!
– Rinse with sea water, but without rubbing the area. We do not use fresh water!
– We do not cover the area with bandages.
– We do not use medicinal preparations without medical advice because the symptoms may vary from person to person.
– If pain and swelling persists, consult a doctor.
– In the case of an allergic person, this person must contact/go to a doctor or hospital immediately.
Like all jellyfish, Rhopilema nomadica is a planktonic organism, i.e. it is carried away by sea currents, so its appearance is a transient phenomenon and is directly linked to the hydrodynamic conditions that prevail each time.
Since the 1980s, periodic outbreaks of the population have been recorded in the Greek seas. At the same time, the increase in the temperature of the planet and therefore of the sea, due to climate change, creates favorable conditions for the appearance of such outbreaks in jellyfish populations.
In addition, the decline of sea turtles, whose jellyfish are a staple food, as well as the overfishing of large pelagic fish, contributes to the increase in the jellyfish population.
The staff of the Hydrobiological Station of Rhodes/ELKETHE monitors and records the phenomenon and its evolution every day, thanking all the citizens who send daily records of the specific species
Source: Skai
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