Warning Issued Over Bluebottle Jellyfish Presence Off Songkhla Beaches

Picture courtesy of Gulf of Thailand Marine Centre.

Beachgoers are being urged to exercise caution following the discovery of an extensive proliferation of Bluebottle Jellyfish along popular local beaches, including Chao Ta Nature Beach, Samila Beach, and Laem Son Oan Beach.

The announcement originates from the Southern Gulf of Thailand Marine and Coastal Resource Research Centre in Songkhla, after a post appeared on social media platform Facebook on January 26. A user, known as Mayu Ri, reported experiencing severe burning pain after touching the marine creature at Songkhla beach, and shared a photo of the jellyfish.

In response to this alarming report, officials conducted a field investigation on January 27, in collaboration with lifeguards from the Songkhla Lifeguard service. The assessment revealed dense clusters of Bluebottle Jellyfish (Physalia) in the area, with an average size of 1-4 cm. The findings were as follows: 174 jellyfish per 100 metres at Chao Ta Nature Beach, 15 jellyfish per 100 metres at Samila Beach, and 62 jellyfish per 100 metres at Laem Son Oan Beach.

January to March is traditionally recognised as the peak season for jellyfish blooms in this region. This species of jellyfish carries a potent venom that can inflict harm, potentially affecting the nervous system, skin, and heart.

Officials have promptly communicated this vital information through the “Coastal Injury Monitoring” Line group in Songkhla Province, urging relevant agencies to enhance public awareness about the dangers posed by the jellyfish.

Beachgoers are advised to be vigilant and refrain from touching or swimming in areas where these jellyfish are present. Safety measures are being reinforced as authorities work to ensure the well-being of all visitors to the region's beaches.

-- 2025-01-29