The BBC is reporting that due to the warm weather of July a rapid increase in jellyfish numbers has been seen off UK coasts. In particular the Lions Maine species is seeing large numbers of growth.
A few windsurfers who frequent the waters around Hayling have reported seeing what appeared to be jellyfish shoals out by the West Winner sand bank. Scientists are warning people not to touch them as some species do sting.
Dr Richardson from the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) was quoted as saying: We are getting anecdotal reports of people saying Ive been to this beach for many years and Ive never seen so many jellyfish – we do tend to get that each year.
There are conflicting views as to why jellyfish numbers are blooming with some evidence suggesting pollution could be a factor. In environments where algal blooms have increased due to pollutant levels depriving the seas of oxygen jellyfish do well whereas other species struggle to survive.
Over fishing is also a concern with Dr Richardson adding: They are great opportunists they have a unique design if you take away their competition they will take advantage of that situation.
Other scientists say that the increase in numbers is down to a natural cycle over 20 years that sees jellyfish enjoy rapid growth before dying off.
