Beachgoers in Florida, beware: man-of-war jellyfish are common sightings in local beaches. These tentacles can invoke a very painful and intense sting upon contact with your skin. The 'balloon' often has a long tentacle or multiple strands of tentacles that are composed of thousands of stinging cells.

The Portuguese Man of War is a translucent blue, gas-filled sac with a gelatinous clump of multiple organisms at the bottom. This is the typical presentation for a common type of relative of the jellyfish family known as a Portuguese Man of War. Visitors to local area beaches may observe what may first appear to be floating plastic bottles or balloons in the surf zone and washed up on the beach.

It's essential to be aware of your surroundings when spending time at the beach, especially during peak season. In fact, the city of Cocoa Beach recently posted a safety alert regarding an increase in marine stings early this season. Portuguese Man Of Wars are common in these waters, so it's crucial to exercise caution and not touch them.

While they may look fascinating with their vibrant colors, it's tempting to avoid touching or handling them. Remember that man-of-war jellyfish pack a punch, and their sting can be extremely painful. Be prepared when out on the beaches by educating yourself on how to recognize these creatures and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

By being mindful of your surroundings and taking the necessary steps to avoid contact with man-of-war jellyfish, you can minimize the risk of getting stung and have a great time soaking up the sun at Florida's beautiful beaches.

Man of war jellyfish beach florida