Tourists at a popular beach in Fuengirola were amazed by the massive jellyfish that washed ashore last week. The jellyfish, which appeared on El Castillo Beach, caught the attention of beachgoers on August 23 when a video showed someone trying to move it onto the sand using a flip-flop.
Social media users debated whether it was right to relocate the jellyfish. Some questioned the decision, highlighting concerns about disrupting the ecosystem, while others pointed out the potential danger of venomous jellyfish on the beach, especially for children.
The specific species of the jellyfish remains unknown, but the Mediterranean is typically home to barrel jellyfish, also known as Rhizostoma pulmo. These creatures can grow up to 150 cm in diameter and are commonly found in waters around Britain and Ireland.
In a related incident, beaches in Portugal recently faced a ban on swimming due to a surge in man-o’-war stings. These jellyfish-like animals, known as siphonophores, caused several injuries in Bizkaia, prompting authorities to warn against swimming when jellyfish or Portuguese men-of-war are present. If stung, individuals are advised to seek medical attention and avoid scratching the affected area.