Overview

• Jace Tunnell of Texas A&M–Corpus Christi’s Harte Research Institute documented more than 10 Drymonema larsoni along a roughly 10-mile stretch in recent days.
• These rare jellyfish can exceed 50 pounds and carry tentacles reaching about 70 feet, though their bright color fades after stranding.
• The bloom occurs when moon jellies are plentiful and ends quickly if food declines or waters cool.
• Stings to people are typically mild—rated about two out of ten—and vinegar can help remove tentacles and lessen discomfort.
• Beached individuals are rapidly scavenged or break down, and the species has been recorded in the Gulf of Mexico, the Mediterranean, and waters near South Africa.