Key Takeaways
- Bluebottles are jellyfish that rely on the wind to move and can be found in large numbers on beaches when the wind blows in a certain direction.
- The recent influx of bluebottles in Victoria has been helped along by summer’s hotter water temperatures, which cause them to grow, eat, and reproduce more.
- Prevention is the best cure when it comes to bluebottle stings, and wearing protective clothing such as a rashie or wetsuit can help.
- If stung, removing the tentacles safely and washing the wound in hot water can help alleviate the pain.
- More research is needed to determine the best treatment for bluebottle stings, but hot water is currently the recommended treatment.
Introduction to Bluebottles
Bluebottles are a type of jellyfish that rely on the wind to move, using the sail atop their gas-filled float, called a pneumatophore, to propel themselves through the water. Interestingly, half of the species has a left-facing sail, while the other half faces right, which is likely an evolutionary tactic to ensure that the entire population doesn’t get stranded when the wind blows fiercely. This unique characteristic allows bluebottles to navigate the ocean and end up on beaches, where they can be a nuisance to swimmers and beachgoers.
The Impact of Wind on Bluebottle Movement
The movement of bluebottles is heavily influenced by the wind, and the beaches along the Mornington Peninsula are a prime example of this. When the wind blows from the north-east, the bluebottles are blown offshore, and the beaches are clear of them. However, when the wind blows from the east, the bluebottles are blown towards the beaches, resulting in a large influx of them. This is exactly what happened at the start of last week, when the peninsula was hit with easterly winds, and the beaches were filled with bluebottles.
The Role of Water Temperature in Bluebottle Blooms
The recent influx of bluebottles in Victoria has also been helped along by summer’s hotter water temperatures. According to Dr. Lisa-ann Gershwin, director of the Australian Marine Stinger Advisory Services, the warm water causes bluebottles to grow, eat, and reproduce more, resulting in a bloom of the jellyfish. This is why it’s not uncommon to see large numbers of bluebottles on beaches during the summer months, and why it’s essential to take precautions when swimming or surfing in areas where they are present.
Prevention and Treatment of Bluebottle Stings
Prevention is the best cure when it comes to bluebottle stings, and there are several steps that can be taken to avoid them. Wearing protective clothing such as a rashie or wetsuit can help prevent stings, and avoiding touching or brushing against bluebottles can also reduce the risk of being stung. If you are stung, it’s essential to remove the tentacles safely and wash the wound in hot water to alleviate the pain. Contrary to popular myth, urinating on a jellyfish sting is not an effective treatment and can even make the pain worse.
The Science Behind Bluebottle Stings
Bluebottles have a unique way of delivering their venom, using a hair trigger at the end of their stinging cells to release a tiny harpoon filled with venom. This harpoon can slice through human skin like butter, causing intense pain. However, if there is a layer of protection between the skin and the bluebottle, such as a wetsuit or rashie, the venom cannot penetrate, and the sting is prevented. Understanding the science behind bluebottle stings is essential in developing effective treatments and prevention methods.
Treatment and Research
While hot water is currently the recommended treatment for bluebottle stings, more research is needed to determine the best course of treatment. Professor Richard McGee, chair of paediatrics at the University of Newcastle, conducted a systematic review in 2023 that pointed towards hot water as the best treatment, but he emphasizes that more research is desperately needed. With the number of bluebottle stings needing treatment on Australian beaches expected to increase due to environmental changes, it’s essential that we continue to study and understand these jellyfish and develop effective treatments for their stings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bluebottles are a common sight on Australian beaches, particularly during the summer months. While they can be a nuisance, there are steps that can be taken to prevent and treat their stings. By understanding the science behind bluebottle stings and taking precautions when swimming or surfing in areas where they are present, we can minimize the risk of being stung. Further research is needed to develop effective treatments for bluebottle stings, but for now, hot water remains the recommended treatment. By being aware of the risks and taking the necessary precautions, we can enjoy the ocean while minimizing the risk of a painful bluebottle sting.