Purple jellyfish sightings in Ionian Sea cause concern
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Loading... - Ingrid Crecelius
- 11 May 2023
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Concerns have been raised over the reappearance of the Pelagia noctiluca, commonly known as the purple jellyfish, in various locations across the nation, specifically in the northern Ionian Sea. Nevertheless, drawing conclusions about its prevalence during the summer season is deemed premature.
As per the data provided by the digital platform, iNaturalist Jellyfish of Greece, the species, which boasts an unpleasant sting, has been detected to the north and east of Corfu.
"The Anemomylos area, located in Corfu, has reported four sightings of the purple jellyfish thus far. These young jellyfish were observed on April 19th, and based on their pigmentation, we anticipate further sightings in the upcoming months," stated Christos Taklis, director of the Greek Biodiversity Observatory. He further noted that regions of the sea, mainly off the coasts of Corfu and Paxos, experienced a significant presence of purple jellyfish populations last year, with a substantial number of them surviving through the winter season.
In contrast, in the Aegean, there have been only sporadic sightings of the purple jellyfish this year. "We have yet to find any new colonies," explained Taklis.
