A surge of jellyfish, particularly the lions mane, is expected along Aucklands coast due to rising water temperatures, posing risks with their painful tentacles.
- Auckland is witnessing an increase in jellyfish populations, driven by warmer waters and a rise in plankton, crucial for jellyfish feeding.
- Among the 35 species present in New Zealand waters, the lions mane jellyfish is notable for its massive tentacle length, reaching up to 36 meters.
- The lions mane and spotted jellyfish, despite their beauty, can deliver severely painful stings, raising health concerns for beachgoers.
Why It Matters
The jellyfish surge signals ecological shifts due to climate change, potentially disrupting local marine ecosystems and impacting recreation and tourism in Aucklands coastal areas.