All open water swimmers located in Portugal know when summer has actually arrived, as the water warms up by a few (few) degrees and therefore, so do our jellyfish friends. Anyone who has been to the beaches these last few days knows that the water is already full of baby jellyfish... that is, they have already arrived and are now in the growth phase.
As much as we may not like them, we cannot forget that this is their habitat, so we have to respect the environment and there is no need to kill them, although many of them that we find near the beach are already dead, they are just to fulfill its role in the food chain by being food for fish.
Many are afraid of jellyfish, they are really scary, because when we are swimming casually and we pass over one of these creatures or often when they come towards us, nothing happens, but we weren't expecting it, so we get scared. In most cases, from my experiences on the beaches along the Oeira - Cascais line, depending on where they touch our skin and each person's sensitivity, it can cause a tingling sensation or a quick burning sensation with redness, but that's it, isn't it? No other action is necessary, unlike a situation with a Portuguese Caravel, which is still rare, but is starting to appear more frequently.
Below are some species from the Portuguese coast, presented by the Câmara de Cascais:
Physalia physalis (Portuguese man-o´-war)
The Portugues man-o´-war, despite appearing to be a single creature, is not. This is a heteromorphic organism, that is, a colony of organisms that each have a specific function, are not anatomically connected but work together. It floats on the surface of the water and is influenced by winds and surface currents. Its tentacles can reach 30m. This is the species with the greatest stinging power that frequently occurs on the Portuguese coast, so direct contact should be avoided whenever possible. In case of a burn, apply vinegar and hot compresses to the affected area.
Provided with a surface structure similar to a sail, the Sailfish floats on the surface of the water and is influenced by winds and surface currents, and like the previous species it is also a colony of organisms. These organisms can form dense aggregates, covering the surface of the water, and vast areas of sand when they come to shore. Its tentacles are small and slightly stinging, and it is advisable to avoid direct contact. If stung, apply ice packs and, if possible, baking soda.
It is probably the most common jellyfish in mainland Portugal, and can be easily observed in ports and marinas, especially on the Tagus, Sado and Gaudiana rivers and Ria de Aveiro. It is a large species and its stinging power is considered weak. However, caution is advised. If stung, apply ice packs and, if possible, baking soda.
Rhizostoma luteum (Medusa-tambor) It is a rare species that occurs on the Portuguese coast, in the Strait of Gibraltar and on the west African coast with relative frequency. It is a large jellyfish whose bell can reach 60 cm in diameter. It is easily recognized by its short oral arms with long, dark-colored appendages at the ends. In case of direct contact with the skin, apply ice packs and, if possible, baking soda.
In case of bites or sightings of any of the species, it is important to inform the people around you and the lifeguards. If the beach is not monitored, you can also report the sighting to the Maritime Authority on 214 401 919 or for any emergency call 112.
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