The bluebottle jellyfish, also known as Physalia utriculus, is commonly found along the coasts of non-tropical regions bordering the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans. These creatures are not jellyfish but rather siphonophores composed of multiple organisms known as zooids. These zooids work together in unison and rely on each other to function correctly. They each serve different purposes, such as floating, feeding, reproduction, and stinging.
Despite their small size of about 10 cm/ 4”, bluebottle jellyfish have tentacles stretching up to 3 meters (9 feet) long. These tentacles are equipped with stinging cells that contain barbs and neurotoxic venom. When the jellyfish drifts downwind, its tentacles float beneath it. They wait to come into contact with prey such as small fish, squid, small crustaceans, or larger surface plankton. Once prey is touched, it is immobilized by the venom. The jellyfish then uses contracting muscles to lift the tentacle and transport the prey to the digestive polyps below its floating body.
What happens when humans are stung by a bluebottle jellyfish?
When humans come into contact with these stinging cells, the pain can be exceptionally intense and last up to an hour. These stings can occur in the water and land, such as when touching the tentacles. Depending on which part of the body is stung, the effects can range from a mild rush to blisters and swelling and, in severe cases, can lead to medical issues. The pain may also be felt in the lymph glands that drain the affected region. In most cases, professional medical treatment is advised.
The best way to prevent stings is to avoid entering the water when bluebottle jellyfish are present on the beach and to avoid touching any stranded bluebottle tentacles.
Removing bluebottle jellyfish stinging cells
In case of a sting, it is essential not to use alcohol, vinegar, or freshwater to remove any remaining tentacles from the skin, as this can cause more venom to be released. Instead, saltwater or salted fresh water is recommended to clean the affected area. It is essential to ensure that the washing water does not run down the legs, as some of the nematocysts can cause further damage to the feet. Before attempting to remove any tentacle parts by hand, it is advisable to protect the fingers with a rubber glove or other protective items.
Scrape any remaining nematocysts on the skin with the edge of a knife, credit card, or other sharp object. This should be done carefully and gently, not applying too much pressure or further irritating the affected area. After removing the nematocysts, it is advisable to wash the area with saltwater or salted freshwater. If necessary, seek professional medical attention.
An old lifeguard trick involves sprinkling sea sand on the remaining tentacles. The sting cells should be scraped off the skin by gently rubbing them. While this method can be painful, it is better than leaving the sting cells in place. However, it is essential to note that using sea sand is not scientifically proven and has not been recommended by medical professionals.
Possibilities to reduce pain induced by the venom
If no tentacle parts remain on the skin, the effect of the venom can be reduced by immersing the affected body part in salted water. The water temperature should be around 45°C. The body part should be immersed for an hour or longer or until the symptoms subside. However, this temperature may be too hot for many people to tolerate. In such cases, other suitable heating sources, such as first-aid heat packs, can provide relief.
Other possibilities for relieving the pain caused by Bluebottle jellyfish stings:
- Detergent liquids such as “Handy Andy” from Unilever or similar products can be adequate.
- A paste made from meat tenderizer mixed with water can help.
- It is said that urinating directly on the affected area can relieve the pain.
- Applying topical anesthetic or corticosteroid cream to the affected area may also help.
- Taking oral antihistamines may provide relief.
Stranded blue bottles are being eaten up very soon.
One creature that does not fear bluebottles but enjoys them is the plow shell sea snail, which includes species such as Bullia digitalis. These scavenger snails have a keen sense of smell and can detect the scent of bluebottle carcasses from a distance. Working together in packs, they can completely consume a blue bottle within days, including its bladder, polyps, and tentacles. You can watch the attached video to understand better how quickly these snails move.
Lessons learned from Bluebottle jellyfish:
- If you see blue bottles stranded on the beach, avoiding swimming in the sea is best.
- Pack thick rubber gloves, meat tenderizer, or Handy Andy in your beachcombing survival bag.
- The plow shell sea snail (Bullia digitalis) is a helpful ally when seeking revenge against bluebottles.
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