Post by Chris on Aug 2, 2006 21:45:15 GMT
Weever And Jelly Fish
Below is a list of Weeverfish and Jellyfish species, both common and rare,
which have been found in our waters in recent years. The effect of a sting
can vary from a minor rash to extreme swelling, so it’s important you
know what to do if it happens.
1 Lesser Weeverfish ECHIICHTHYS VIPERA
Common Up to 14cm in length.
Produces puncture wound, causing considerable pain and swelling.
2 Barrel Jellyfish RHIZOSTOMA OCTOPUS
Common Up to 100cm in diameter. This large jellyfish has eight
long tentacles, hence the name “octopus”. Usually harmless, but can
sometimes cause a minor sting.
3 Blue CYANEA LAMARCKII
Fairly rare Approximately 30cm in diameter. Usually harmless, but
can sometimes cause a minor sting.
4 Portuguese Man-of-war PHYSALIA PHYSALIS
Rare Up to 30cm in length on top part of body and about 15cm in
height out of the water. Its tentacles can cause painful lesions to the skin.
5 Compass CHRYSARORA HYSOSCELLA
Common Approximately 30cm in diameter. Usually harmless, but can
sometimes cause a minor sting.
6 Lion’s Mane CYANEA CAPILLATA
Common 50cm in diameter.
Usually harmless but can occasionally cause a painful sting.
TREATING A STING.
Weeverfish: place the affected area in water as hot as is comfortable. Test the water first so as not to scald the
person who has been stung.
Jellyfish: DO NOT RUB, as this will cause the pain to intensify. Lightly spray the area
with sea water and apply a cold compress or ice if available.
If severe or life-threatening symptoms are present, seek medical help immediately.