The strong westerly storms that have battered the Strait of Gibraltar in recent weeks have left an unsettling surprise on Spanish beaches which are popular with tourists. Hundreds of Portuguese Man O’ War (Physalia physalis) have washed up on the sand, painting the coastline with a dangerous purple hue.
The presence of this marine organism has caused concern among swimmers and walkers, as its sting is not merely a mild irritation. It can cause intense pain, muscle spasms, and, in extreme cases, neurological and cardiac complications. Portuguese Man O’ War tentacles, which can extend up to 50 metres underwater, are covered with stinging cells capable of paralysing their prey and causing severe reactions in humans.
Although commonly referred to as a jellyfish by the general public, it is actually a siphonophore – a floating colony of polyps that work together and move, driven by wind and ocean currents.
Hundreds have washed up on Los Lances beach in Tarifa, on the coast of Cadiz, while specimens of this animal have been located in Malaga, Marbella, Fuengirola, and Benalmádena.
In case of contact, it is advised not to rub the affected area, apply local cold treatment, and wash with saltwater, always avoiding fresh water as it can intensify venom release. The use of creams with antihistamines or corticosteroids is recommended and victims should seek medical attention if the pain is intense or symptoms persist.
Experts warn that the proliferation of these organisms is due to factors such as rising water temperatures, pollution, and the reduction of natural predators like sea turtles.
“The Portuguese Man o’ War is not native to the Mediterranean but to the Atlantic Ocean, where it inhabits tropical waters. However, under certain climatic conditions, it can be carried through the Strait of Gibraltar and reach Mediterranean coasts,” explain sources from the Aula del Mar Mediterráneo foundation.
Monitoring the Portuguese Man o’ War is essential to understand its distribution and predict where it might appear in the coming days, especially with the upcoming Easter period likely to bring more visitors to Costa del Sol’s beaches.
“Having up-to-date information will allow coastal surveillance services to be alerted and preventive measures taken.”
To avoid surprises on the shore, there are apps and platforms like Infomedusa, Meduseo or MedusApp that allow real-time monitoring of jellyfish and Portuguese Man O’ War presence on beaches.
Citizens and tourists are also encouraged to contact marine biologist Jesús Bellido (jesus.bellido@auladelmarmed.org) if they encounter any Portuguese Man o’ War specimens, providing location details (beach name or coordinates), sighting date, and photos.
