Box Jellyfish

Identification

The infamous sea jelly is large and transparent with a box-shaped bell and up to 60 tentacles in four clumps along the base of the bell.

Habitat

This species occupies the tropical Australian coastal waters from Western Australia through the Northern Territory to Queensland.

Feeding and diet

Found most often in summer in inshore waters as they feed on bay-dwelling prawns, coastal mangroves, creeks and rivers. They can swim toward movement and may go into the shallows on hot, cloudy, still days in search of prey which, in the summer wet season, can lead to stings in murky coastal river waters.

Danger to humans

1. If stung call emergency services: Mobile phone: 112 Landline: 000
2. Be prepared to give CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if needed.
3. Calm the patient and stop them from rubbing the stung area.
4. Flood the stung area with vinegar for at least 30 seconds.
5. Carefully remove tentacles from the stung area with tweezers or a stick, preferably with the aid of a medical professional.

Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

First aid guidelines were correct at time of publication however these guidelines change over time. For up to date first aid information consult medical professionals such as St John's Ambulance.