Box jellyfish are commonly found in the waters off northern Australia.
The box jellyfish, whose scientific name is Chironex fleckeri, is an extremely poisonous invertebrate marine creature, also known as a sea wasp or sea stinger. The sting of a box jellyfish is excruciatingly painful and, in many cases, can be fatal. It is found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the waters off northern Australia, and the active season, when it is most likely to peak, can last from October to May. It has a shape similar to a bell or cube, a transparent shade of light blue, and many tentacles. It is carnivorous, that is, it feeds on small crustaceans and fish and normally lives for about a year.
In mild cases, jellyfish stings can be treated with antihistamines and pain relievers.
Known as one of the most dangerous marine animals due to its poison, the box jellyfish is an invertebrate, which means it does not have a backbone. Its tentacles are covered in tiny stinging cells called nematocysts; when it bites, these cells usually remain attached to the victim. The sting causes pain that can be so severe that it can leave the victim in shock and unable to move or swim. The venom also affects the heart, nerves, and skin, which can cause cardiac arrest, persistent pain that lasts for weeks, and severe scarring and skin damage.
When a person is stung by a box jellyfish, immediate medical attention is required. It is important to stop the stinging cells before removing the tentacles by pouring vinegar over them for at least 30 seconds. Many cases also require antivenin, which is available at any hospital in areas where jellyfish are found. Milder cases can be treated with ice, pain relievers, and antihistamine medications, but it is vital that they be evaluated by a medical professional to determine the appropriate treatment.
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, the box jellyfish is found throughout the area, especially in tropical waters north of Australia, as well as in Vietnam, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. They tend to stay in shallow coastal waters, or estuaries, streams, and river mouths. Active “biting season” normally runs from October to May, although stings have also been known to occur in June, July, and August.
The box jellyfish has a more defined shape than many other species, often resembling a cube or bell with four sides. The tentacles are found in groups of about 15 at each corner of the box-shaped body. It can grow up to 10 feet (3 m), including tentacles, and the body is transparent with a light blue color. There are sets of eyes on each side that allow him to see, and he is also able to propel himself through water instead of floating.
As a carnivore, jellyfish feed on small crustaceans and fish. It stings its prey to immobilize it before eating, which prevents the tentacles from being damaged during the fight. Typical life expectancy is about a year, with adults spawning in late summer and laying eggs called polyps, which settle on rocks near river mouths. In spring, they turn into small jellyfish and are carried out to sea during the summer rainy season.