Jellyfish Invade Cocoa Beach, Florida!

Hundreds of Jellyfish at Cocoa Beach in Florida.

Over 1,600 people have been stung by these red jellyfish on Florida’s Atlantic coast within the past week. A 10 mile stretch of Cocoa Beach has been the location where the massive amounts of jellyfish are coming in. These jellyfish are known as mauve stingers. Some scientists say that they reproduce in large amounts every so many years, but it is odd that they are in Florida’s Atlantic side. This species is native to Caribbean waters and different climate areas. One reason why they may be appearing here is because of a climate change that is bringing water from the Gulf of Mexico over to the Atlantic.

Beachgoers have been stung in large numbers by these mauve stingers, but lifeguards are treating victims with vinegar. The mauve stingers can temporarily discolor your skin, cause itching, burning, and pain. It will go away with time, but it is uncomfortable! Please be advised and use caution before you step into the ocean this Summer!