When you go for a swim, you've probably come across jellyfish at least once. These intriguing, translucent creatures with tentacles glide through the water, often appearing transparent but sometimes sporting shades of blue, purple, red, or yellow. They have a mushroom-like hat that opens and closes like an umbrella. When these jellyfish touch your feet while you're swimming, it's not unusual to let out a scream.

Jellyfish are widespread in the world's oceans. Despite discussions on social media about collecting and eliminating them, it's important to remember that the sea is their home, and we are merely guests in their habitat.

I’m trying to focus on the Turkish marine coast and jellyfish that live there. Taking a closer look at the jellyfish we see several species at the sea;

  • The blue button jellyfish, originating from the Pacific.
  • The crystal jellyfish, first observed in Turkish territorial waters in two thousand seventy (2017).
  • The Geridonya, which first observed in two thousand thirty (2013).
  • The Neuturri, found from the North Sea to the Pacific.
  • The cigar jellyfish, which thrives in warm waters.
  • The Moon jellyfish, which contradicts its cute and transparent appearance.
  • The barrel jellyfish, easily recognizable by its appearance.
  • The compass jellyfish, distinguishable by its distinctive colors and patterns.


One must not forget to be cautious about the box jellyfish known as Carybdea marsupialis, a species found in the Mediterranean. If encountered underwater, avoid touching it at all costs.

While these are not an exhaustive list of species in Turkish territorial waters, listing them all here would turn this section into a zoology lesson. If you interested in jellyfish at Mediterranean, Aegean and Black Sea, please visit the Turkish Marine Research Foundation - TUDAV, and find the qualified insights with jellyfish.

The Turkish Marine Research Foundation conducts remarkable work related to marine life in Turkish territorial waters, and their contributions are of high quality. Please keep in touch with them.

I recently came across a video in the social media which a man hugged a jellyfish, claiming to have caught an octopus. After this weird hunting, the jellyfish stung him, prompting him to make a swift escape into the sea.

So, important question is this; do jellyfish sting?

While the term sting might not be entirely accurate, jellyfish do exhibit a defense mechanism akin to stinging, which they employ to protect itselves from predators. Let's explore this mechanism and how jellyfish deliver their stings.

A jellyfish's sting is essentially a defensive mechanism that mirrors mechanisms used by various other aquatic creatures to deter predators. Underwater life features diverse defense methods, ranging from creatures with sharp teeth to those that shoot arrows or have saw-like heads. Jellyfish have developed their own unique way of deterring threats.

At the tips of a jellyfish's tentacles, there are specialized cells known as cnidocytes. These cells serve a clear purpose: hunting and defense. They are filled with a highly caustic and toxic liquid contained within small tubes. When a jellyfish makes contact with its prey or is touched by a potential threat, these tubes rupture, releasing the liquid. If it's hunting, this liquid paralyzes the prey, making it the jellyfish's next meal. If the jellyfish becomes prey itself, the liquid inflicts a burning and irritating sensation in the predator's mouth or, when it contacts human skin, the affected area. Please, don't take it personally; it's just nature's way.

Jellyfish encompass a broad category, and they range from entirely harmless to having venom potent enough to harm humans. Among them, the Box jellyfish stands out as one of the deadliest jellyfish in the world. In addition to this, species like the Compass jellyfish and Crab jellyfish in our seas are also noteworthy.

At first glance, it's challenging to differentiate between poisonous and non-poisonous jellyfish. However, the length of their tentacles can serve as a critical factor. If they boast lengthy tentacles with vibrant, eye-catching colors, it's best to keep a safe distance from these jellyfish. If you lack knowledge about jellyfish and are concerned, avoiding contact with any jellyfish you encounter is a prudent approach.

By the way, i want to tell something about being eye-catching colorful. It’s a simple and easy-undestandable signal about sea creature is poisonous or not. Please note it on somewhere in brain.
To safeguard yourself from jellyfish stings, you can take simple precautions:

  • If possible, visually scan the water surface from a pier or boat before swimming. If you spot jellyfish, avoid entering the water.
  • Wear a swimsuit that covers your arms and legs.
  • If you've ventured into the sea despite the presence of jellyfish and find tentacle fragments in your swimsuit when you exit the water, carefully cleanse them with seawater without touching them.


Jellyfish stings are common occurrences, but they are often treated incorrectly. Since it's challenging to identify the specific jellyfish species and when and where a sting might occur, we all face the risk of encountering a jellyfish in the sea at any time.

Here's the truth: the most prevalent mistake is attempting to alviate (alleviate) a jellyfish sting by urinating on it. The key is to find the solution in the sea.

If any tentacle fragments remain, you should thoroughly wash them off your skin with an abundance of seawater. Refrain from using urine, vinegar, soapy water, or freshwater on the affected area. Pouring alcohol on the sting is also an incorrect approach.

I understand it's tough, but resist the urge to scratch the sting. Even though it may itch considerably, you must avoid scratching. Scratching can burst other microcysts remaining on the skin, intensifying the pain and expanding the irritation. After a while, the sting will begin to heal naturally. However, if you've come into contact with a peculiar - looking jellyfish and don't feel well, it's advisable to seek medical attention.

Resting with an ice pack applied to the affected area until you reach the hospital can also provide relief. Nevertheless, never place the ice directly on the irritated area. Unfortunately, the worst news is that you might need to limit your sun exposure for the rest of your holiday.