Jellyfish are planktonic organisms whose livelihood is water where they survive by floating. The problem with these animals is that they have been appearing on the shores of some Spanish beaches for some time especially in the summer period with the discomfort that this supposes for bathers. In addition to being exposed to a sting, which although it is treatable generates discomfort, especially stinging and tingling in the area.
Map with jellyfish sightings. CLICK HERE TO SEE IT
Various factors
To determine in which coastal areas a greater or lesser presence of jellyfish may occur, it is necessary to assess the maritime and meteorological conditions that have occurred throughout the year. Therefore, from one year to another, its amount may vary.
In general, it is believed that these organisms are increasingly seen on the coasts as a consequence of climate change and the general warming that our seas and oceans are experiencing. It also has to do with a decrease in large predators such as tuna or swordfish.
The reasons why jellyfish come to shore are diverse. They usually do it in summer because it is in this period where the water is warmer, meeting the ideal conditions to reproduce. Sea breezes they also make it possible for jellyfish to be washed ashore at times.
exist some coastal characteristics that may favor its proliferationFor example, it is less common to see them on closed coasts where the wind blows less. But if we are on a beach where the breezes are intense and there is a considerable difference in temperature between the water on the shore and the one further away, the chances are higher.
The Mediterranean
In Spain, the beaches of the mediterranean sea they are the most likely to receive these animals. Their conditions are more conducive to this and for this reason it is usually more common to come across them in some part of this coastline.
We can inform ourselves in advance before going to a beach by asking someone organism dependent on the environment area. Similarly, once at the destination, the lifeguard can provide us with information about it. However, they are very easy to identify as we will see them floating on the sea.
A yellow flag is placed on the beaches if we must bathe with caution for this reason or a red flag if swimming is discouraged due to jellyfish. These flags are usually accompanied by other specific ones that indicate their presence and that may be different depending on the area.
