News
Moon, compass, blue and lion’s mane – it’s a blooming good time for jellyfish
Beach users urged to report jellyfish finds on UK beaches
The Marine Conservation Society (MCS), the UK’s leading marine charity, says the number of jellyfish blooms – when jellies mass together – in UK coastal waters is on the increase as our seas start to warm up.
Every summer hundreds of reports of jellyfish sightings are made to the MCS National Jellyfish Survey – now in its 14th year. The survey is providing valuable information about where and when jellyfish occur in UK seas amid global reports of a rise in jellyfish numbers.
Up until July, it’s been a relatively quiet year for jellyfish reports, unlike the last two years when record numbers of barrel jellyfish were reported around UK seas through the spring and summer.
Dr Peter Richardson, Head of Biodiversity and Fisheries at the Marine Conservation Society, said: “There’s evidence that jellyfish numbers are increasing in some parts of the world, including UK seas. Some scientists argue that jellyfish numbers increase and then decrease normally every 20 years or so; however, others believe and these increases are linked to factors such as pollution, over-fishing and possibly climate change. The MCS jellyfish survey helps provide some of the information we need to understand more about these ancient creatures.”
Although the charity has received reports of barrel jellyfish sightings, the number of blue and moon jellies are starting to pick up as the waters around the UK warm up, with mass strandings of both species in South West England and Wales.
Lion’s mane jellyfish – which have a powerful sting – have also been reported from beaches in Scotland and around the Irish Sea. MCS says that anyone who comes across a jellyfish at sea or on the beach should look but don’t touch, but report their sightings at www.mcsuk.org.
Jellies to look out for in UK waters:
Moon (Aurelia aurita)
Most widespread species, occurring all around the UK coast from May.
Blue (Cyanea lamarkii)
Less common than the moon but can turn up anywhere.
Barrel (Rhizostoma octopus)
Can grow up to 1 metre in diameter and weigh up to 40kgs, totally harmless despite its size and is largely limited to the Irish Sea and adjacent waters to the north. Can be spotted all year round, even in winter, but blooms tend to start in March.
Lion’s mane (Cyanea capillata)
Has the most powerful and painful sting of the UK species. It blooms during the summer but is rarely seen south of the Irish Sea (west coast), or south of Northumberland (east coast), with most reports coming from Scottish waters.
Compass (Chrysaora hysoscella)
Has bizarre compass-like markings and is found throughout the UK coast.
Mauve stingers (Pelagia noctiluca)
Occasionally recorded from the southwest in early spring, but large numbers were reported off Britain’s west coast during November 2007, 2008 & 2009.
Portuguese Man-of-War (Physalia physalia)
Rare in UK waters but MCS received many reports from beaches in south-west England in the summers of 2007, 2008 and 2009.
“We still know relatively little about jellyfish and what drives changes in their numbers, so reporting even a single one can help. One thing we do know is that Leatherback turtles travel to UK waters to feed on jellyfish and are usually recorded along the west coast of the UK between May and October – this year we’ve already heard of sightings from the south west of England and the Irish Sea.” Says Dr Richardson.
News
Scubaverse Acquired by Multiversal Media: A New Era of Expansion into Outdoor Travel and Wildlife Markets
Scubaverse is thrilled to announce its acquisition by Multiversal Media, marking an exciting new chapter in the evolution of the company.
This strategic move aims to fuel further investment and expansion both within niche scuba sectors and into the broader wildlife and outdoor travel markets. The acquisition reflects Multiversal Media’s commitment to enhancing Scubaverse’s capabilities and offerings, ensuring a deeper insight into the diving market while also broadening the scope beyond diving. With increased resources and an expanded team, Scubaverse is poised to delve into diverse travel experiences and outdoor adventures, creating a comprehensive platform for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
“Joining forces with Multiversal Media opens new doors for Scubaverse,” said Dave Alexander, the Founder of Scubaverse. “This partnership not only reinforces our dedication to the diving community, but also empowers us to explore innovative opportunities across the outdoor travel landscape. We are excited about what the future holds and look forward to delivering a richer, more varied experience for our audience.”
Together, Scubaverse and Multiversal Media will focus on integrating advanced insights and strategies to elevate the brand’s presence and offerings. As part of this transition, subscribers and followers can anticipate enhanced content, more extensive travel guides, and exciting collaborations that cater to both diving enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
About Scubaverse
Scubaverse is a leading media platform for divers from all over the globe, offering insights, news, and resources dedicated to the scuba community. With an unwavering passion for underwater exploration, Scubaverse continues to thrive as a hub for divers worldwide.
About Multiversal Media
Multiversal Media is a dynamic media company focused on creating expansive travel and wildlife content. Committed to showcasing the beauty of nature and the adventure of exploration, Multiversal Media is dedicated to connecting audiences with the outdoor world.
Sea & Sea is excited to announce an exclusive VIP event at Fin Divers on Saturday, 7th December 2024. Running from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the event will feature representatives from BARE, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore their premium range of drysuits and receive expert advice from knowledgeable staff.
This special event invites divers to try on BARE drysuits, learn more about their features, and have any questions answered by specialists. For those unable to attend, Sea & Sea welcomes inquiries at sales@sea-sea.com to ensure no one misses out on this incredible opportunity.
Exclusive Promotion
Attendees who purchase one of the following BARE drysuits—available in Stock, Made-to-Order (MTO), and Made-to-Measure (MTM)—will receive complimentary gear to enhance their diving experience:
- X-Mission Evolution*
- Expedition HD2 Tech Dry
- Trilam Tech Dry
- Trilam Pro Dry
- Sentry Tech Dry
- Sentry Pro Dry
- Guardian Tech Dry
- Guardian Pro Dry
Bonus Items Included with Purchase:
- Cuff Rings with Latex or Silicone Wrist Seals and neck rings
- Ultrawarmth Base Layer Top and Bottom
Don’t miss this chance to upgrade your dive gear and take advantage of expert insights. Join Sea & Sea at Fin Divers in Stevenage for a day dedicated to innovation and superior diving solutions.
For more information, contact:
Sea & Sea
Email: sales@sea-sea.com
Sea & Sea is the home of BARE and other Huish Outdoors diving brands in the UK.
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