Watch Out For Invasive Jersey Shore Jellyfish With Painful Sting
Contributor – Ryan Straub
Be on the lookout this summer. Jersey Shore jellyfish have been popping up and it could be painful. Public and scientific interest is piqued by the growing number of clinging jellyfish at the Jersey Shore. From Monmouth County to Cape May, these diminutive yet powerful organisms have formed a steady population along the coast, mostly in shallow waters with lots of algae. Not fatal, but painful enough to require medical attention when stung, their sting poses a significant risk to anyone enjoying New Jersey’s back bays.
Jersey Shore Jellyfish Are Here
Since these invasive jellyfish were first discovered in New Jersey eight years ago, Dr. Paul Bologna, Director of Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences at Montclair State University, has been at the forefront of research into them. His study sheds light on a noteworthy and rather concerning trend: the clinging jellyfish population’s stability and even increase.
Jersey Shore Jellyfish Evolving and Growing?
Their versatility and persistence are highlighted by the recent discovery of clinging jellyfish in unexpectedly low salinity circumstances close to Brick Township, well upriver from their typical habitats. This discovery suggests that these jellyfish may survive in a wider variety of environmental settings, which may allow them to spread much farther inland than previously believed.
Clinging jellyfish raise a warning for people who live and visit the Jersey Shore regarding recreational water activities. In order to reduce the risks connected to these stings, awareness and education are essential.
Steps to Avoid These Jersey Shore Jellyfish
Painful interactions can be avoided by taking easy preventive steps, like avoiding locations with high concentrations of algae and wearing protective gear. From an ecological standpoint, there might be more significant effects from the increase in clinging jellyfish populations. To fully comprehend the effects of this invasive species and create population management plans, more research is required.
Ultimately, the clinging jellyfish along the Jersey Shore are a poignant reminder of the difficulties and complications that come with invasive species. Understanding the dynamics of these jellyfish and guiding ecological management strategies as well as public safety precautions depend on ongoing research by specialists like Dr. Bologna.
5 Must-See Animals At The Cape May Zoo
Wallaby
A wallaby is more than just a small kangaroo! Both kangaroos and wallabies are marsupials, meaning they carry their young around in a pouch and are similar enough that scientists have placed them in the same order, family, and subfamily. Wallabies are much smaller, though. The wallabies are back in their yard at the zoo! After enlarging their yard, installing a new fence, adding dirt and grass seed, and putting in a new hut (complete with a front porch), the wallaby mob has returned from their temporary yard next door.
Capybara
This loveable species is the world’s largest rodent! Endemic to South America, they inhabit forested and savanna areas near fresh water. They are semi-aquatic and have webbed feet to help them get around! At the Zoo you’ll find Budette, Marigold, Buttercup, Capychino, and Goomba. They are all on exhibit daily, so stop by to say hello.
Galapagos Tortoises
At the Cape May Zoo you can find Fred and his crew, the Galapagos Tortoises! Fred is 500+ lbs. Galapagos tortoises are the largest living species of tortoise and can weigh up to 919 lb. They have lifespans in the wild of over 100 years. Captive Galapagos tortoises can live up to 177 years!
Giraffes
Reticulated Giraffes call the Cape May County Zoo home. The boys rule at the Zoo. Kifeda was born there on November 11, 2017. They also have Jambazi and Beau who buzz around the yard like lively brothers when the weather’s nice.
Lions
Their African Lions came to the zoo in November of 2014 from Jacksonville NJ. Our Male Lex and female Bella are siblings born in 2011. Their main keeper enjoys working with them and compares them to big dogs. try sticking around to hear them roar!
