Spain’s beaches are without a doubt one of the country’s main tourist attractions, renowned for their quality, variety and the chance to enjoy the golden sands and turquoise waters in the blistering summer heat. However, its beaches up and down the country are facing an unexpected threat that seems only to be getting worse.
Jellyfish are already getting a head start on their summer invasion on the Spanish shores with populations of the feared animal rapidly increasing in numbers, which will likely spark panic among the millions of Brits getting ready to visit Spain later this year.
Warmer sea temperatures and environmental disruptions have led to jellyfish numbers surging across the country, prompting swimming bans and medical emergencies. Two beaches in Tarragona had to be closed last July due to the resurgence of these dangerous creatures. Overfishing is also a reason as species that eat the jellyfish are being removed from their natural habitat.
Rapid urbanization of coastlines, particularly Spain’s already heavily developed shores, also contribute to the growing problem.
Coastal developments, such as resorts and hotels, disrupt marine ecosystems and decrease the number of natural predators.
These factors are raising the question about whether our favourite and famous beaches will soon become too unsafe to go swimming.
Last summer more than 7,000 swimmers sought medical attention for jellyfish stings along Spain’s beaches, a significant increase of more than 40% compared to the previous year.
While most jellyfish stings are painful but not dangerous, some species can be more dangerous, notably, the Portuguese Man o’ War jellyfish.
This species is often found on Spanish coasts, particularly along the Canatabrian and Galician coasts, and sightings are becoming increasingly common in the Mediterranean as well.
A Man o’ War jellyfish’s tentacles contain stinging nematocysts and microscopic capsules, which are loaded with coiled, barbed tubes that deliver venom capable of paralysing and killing small fish.
They can be identified by their balloon-like float, which may be blue, violet, or pink and can rise up to six inches above the waterline.
After a sting, the tentacles leave long, stringy red welts on humans skin which can be very painful and sometimes lead to death.
