Can You Swim With Jellyfish in Australia and The Great Barrier Reef?
Jellyfish, captivating denizens of oceans worldwide, inhabit diverse aquatic ecosystems, from the shores of America to the coasts of Scotland, the seas of Japan, Asian countries such as Thailand and Bali all of whom do not escape these critters so easily they just do not publicise them like we do in Australia. They come in various species, with some being prized for their culinary value in Asian cuisine and others posing potential risks to humans, warranting cautious encounters.
Cairns, nestled in Queensland, Australia, is home to a fascinating array of jellyfish. These intriguing creatures thrive in tidal streams, the Coral Sea, and the Great Barrier Reef. They tend to be most abundant during the so-called Cairns jellyfish 'season,' which typically spans from November to May. By the way there is no such season on the calendar its just an Aussie way of saying things that others can understand locally. Coincidentally, this period overlaps with some of the prime times for scuba diving and snorkelling in on the Great Barrier Reef, making it essential to understand how to safely coexist with these marine inhabitants.
According to Dr. Lisa Ann Gershwin, an esteemed expert on jellyfish, "Jellyfish have been an integral part of our marine ecosystem for centuries. While some species can deliver painful and even fatal stings to those who are immune compromised or have other medical issues, local authorities, researchers, and tour operators have collaborated to implement measures ensuring the safety of swimmers, snorkellers, and divers." Australian scientists such as Dr Lisa Ann have done so much intensive research on these marine animals and implemented best practise with the Great Barrier Reef tour operators to provide protection and comfort of mind to visitors on the reef. Australian scientists are now the leading authority on the subject of jellyfish in the world.
What are the Best Ocean Conditions for Irukandji Jellyfish?
According to the in-depth research by Dr Lisa Ann Gershwin there are around 10 days per annum that are simply perfect for these jellyfish to be present in the water. Those days must be very light north easterly breezes less than 10 knots, there must be evidence of tiny salps in the water (this is what they eat) that look like jelly buttons as tiny as your little fingernail. These jelly fish need calm warm waters to manoeuvre. Right behind the Irukandji are sea turtles as they simply love eating this jellyfish. Unfortunately there is a lot of plastic in the ocens nowadays and these poor turtles are mistaking them for jellyfish and end up dying, so we all need to be aware of what we do with our waste and work to keep clean oceans alive.
Dr Lisa Ann also says there is a one in a million chance of being stung, you just have to be the unlucky one on the day.
• And just remember annually there are literally millions of visitors swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving in Australia and the Great Barrier Reef all year round without any issues.
• According to the internet there have been at least 70 deaths caused by the Box Jellyfish (not Irukandji) in Australian waters since records began in the 1880s
• It is reported a particularly bad year may yield around 50 – 100 Irukandji stings.
• Dr Lisa Ann also warns that the more pollution in the ocean and the rising of the acidity is a contributing factor to the rise in jellyfish numbers. In other words, they are the cockroach of the sea and can survive in conditions other marine life cannot, so we need to protect our oceans and stop the pollution.
Navigating Australia's Coastal Waters: Safeguarding Against Jellyfish
Queensland councils in conjunction with Surf Life Saving Australia take proactive measures to protect beachgoers and water enthusiasts. Swimming enclosures are strategically placed in the waters along the East Coast of Queensland during the months of November to May. These nets consist of floating booms that demarcate the enclosure's perimeter and 25mm square mesh nets designed to deter larger box jellyfish. While smaller box jellyfish may still pass through these nets, surf lifesavers diligently patrol these areas, underlining the importance of wearing stinger/Lycra sun suits for enhanced protection.
Stinger/Lycra suits offer comprehensive defence against Jellyfish stings, covering the entire body and offering sun protection, particularly during the region's sweltering summer months. They come highly recommended for anyone intending to explore Australia's coastal waters.
Great Barrier Reef Tours: A Safe Encounter with Jellyfish
Great Barrier Reef tour operators prioritize the safety of their guests when it comes to jellyfish. Informative briefings are conducted en route to the Great Barrier Reef, providing essential knowledge about these creatures. Tour operators offer stinger/Lycra suits in various sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit for both children and adults. Some operators include these suits in their standard ticket prices, while others may charge a nominal fee for cleaning.
Stinger/Lycra suits not only provide protection against jellyfish stings but also offer sun protection, making them a practical choice for reef exploration.
Jellyfish Encounters During Great Barrier Reef Dives
Great Barrier Reef scuba diving remains an enriching experience year-round. All dive operators take their role in educating guests about jellyfish seriously. Dive briefings and marine presentations encompass information about jellyfish presence, potential risks, and protective measures. Stinger/Lycra/wet suits are provided to all divers and are typically included in the dive tour price. These suits cover hands and, in some cases, the neck and head with a hood.
To enjoy a safe diving experience, awareness is paramount. Jellyfish are a year-round presence, but with appropriate precautions, their risk remains manageable. Additionally, box jellyfish in offshore Great Barrier Reef waters are sparsely distributed, making jellyfish stings rare occurrences.
Snorkelling Amidst the Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef
Year-round snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef is a delightful activity, coexisting with jellyfish and an abundance of marine life. Tour operators include comprehensive information about jellyfish during marine briefings and offer stinger/Lycra/wet suits, catering to both adults and children. These suits provide protection from jellyfish stings and sun exposure, ensuring a safe and enjoyable snorkelling experience.
There is no need to fear jellyfish when snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef. By heeding the guidance of the reef tour operators and taking necessary precautions, you can explore this vibrant underwater world with confidence.
Understanding Box Jellyfish and Irukandji Jellyfish in Australian Waters
Box Jellyfish, recognized for their distinctive square-shaped body and long, trailing tentacles, inhabit waters all over the world. Research has identified 28 species of box jellyfish, with three capable of causing harm to humans. The Great Barrier Reef is home to two deadly species, Chrionex fleckeri and Carukia barnesi.
Chrionex fleckeri, also known as the Australian sea wasp, can have a body as large as a basketball with up to 15 tentacles, each equipped with stinging cells. Carukia barnesi, smaller in size, can pass through stinger nets and has stinging cells on both its body and tentacles.
The Irukandji Syndrome: Irukandji is the term used to describe the syndrome that affects humans when stung by specific box jellyfish species, including Carukia barnesi. Although initial stings are painless, they can lead to severe symptoms, such as backaches, headaches, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, sweating, spasms, vertigo, and, in severe cases, fluid in the lungs.
Treatment for Stings: Immediate application of vinegar to the affected area is recommended for jellyfish stings. Vinegar helps neutralize nematocysts (stinging cells) that have not yet discharged toxins into the skin. However, vinegar does not counteract the effects of the box jellyfish toxin, so seeking medical attention is crucial. Avoid rubbing the sting area. Warm water is another great assistant to neutralize the sting.
All Great Barrier Reef tour boats supply vinegar and administer it when needed. In the event of a severe sting, medical evacuation by helicopter from the Great Barrier Reef ensures prompt treatment at appropriate facilities.
Jellyfish On The Great Barrier Reef
Jellyfish are integral to the reefs marine ecosystem, coexisting with a diverse range of marine life. While some species can potentially pose risks, following the advice and instructions provided by the reef operators and taking necessary precautions will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. In the rare event of a jellyfish sting, professional medical staff and services are readily available.
In the words of Dr. Lisa Ann Gershwin, "By understanding and respecting Jellyfish, we can continue to explore and appreciate the beauty of this unique marine environment while ensuring our safety."
Please note: This is informational only; we are not scientists or jellyfish experts. We suggest you do your own research on the matter to enable you to make informed decisions about your own safety.
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