Lorraine Williamson
Sun, sand, and shimmering sea—summer on the Costa del Sol is in full swing. But as beachgoers enjoy the season, local scientists are sounding the alarm over a familiar but unwelcome marine visitor: the pearl jellyfish.
Officially known as Pelagia noctiluca, this translucent creature has already been sighted along the Málaga coastline five times in June, raising concerns about beach safety and climate trends.
The pearl jellyfish may look delicate, but its sting is far from harmless. Named for its ability to glow with flickers of blue light in the dark, particularly when disturbed. The Pelagia noctiluca is both ethereal and dangerous. Roughly 3 to 12 centimetres in size, its long trailing tentacles are armed with stinging cells. These are used to paralyse plankton and small fish. For humans, even a brush with these tentacles can lead to burning pain, skin irritation, and in some cases, severe allergic reactions.
In children or those with sensitive skin, a sting can cause swelling, rashes, and even nausea or vomiting. And unlike some jellyfish, this species can sting without direct contact—its tentacles can reach further than you’d expect.
Why are they so close to shore?
Marine experts point to a combination of shifting sea currents, rising water temperatures, and changing salinity as possible reasons for the jellyfish’s unusual proximity to popular beaches from Calahonda to Torre del Mar. These conditions are likely being intensified by climate change, which continues to affect the migratory patterns and population surges of various sea creatures.
The Pelagia noctiluca’s semi-transparent, pinkish-purple body makes it notoriously difficult to spot in the water—especially when waves are choppy or light is low. That’s why coastal authorities urge caution, especially for those wading into deeper waters.
What to do if you’re stung
If you’re unlucky enough to get stung, the first rule is: don’t panic. Leave the water slowly and calmly to avoid triggering more stings. Avoid rubbing the skin, as that can cause venom to spread or sting cells to fire again.
Instead, rinse the affected area with saltwater, not fresh water, which can worsen the reaction by activating unfired stinging cells. Apply a cold compress to reduce pain and inflammation—but avoid putting ice directly on the skin. While vinegar may help with some jellyfish, it’s not proven effective for the Pelagia noctiluca and should be used with caution.
In cases of intense pain, allergic reaction, or if symptoms worsen, seek medical attention without delay.
Coastal awareness more important than ever
With marine conditions shifting under the influence of global warming, jellyfish blooms may become more frequent and widespread in Spain’s coastal waters. That makes education, observation, and appropriate first-aid knowledge more crucial than ever for locals and tourists alike.
So if you’re heading to the beach this summer, keep your eyes peeled—because sometimes the most dazzling creatures are also the ones best avoided.
Jellyfish on Spanish beaches and what you should know
Sources: wikipedia 20minutos.com