It's World Jellyfish Day! Here Are Some Fun Facts About Malta's Unwanted Beach Visitors
They might be every Maltese swimmer's worst nightmare, but these fascinating creatures have been around longer than dinosaurs!
Today, 3rd November, marks World Jellyfish Day, a day dedicated to celebrating one of the ocean's most fascinating creatures. And if there's one country that knows a thing or two about jellyfish, it's Malta!
Jellyfish are a familiar sight in Maltese waters, particularly during the warmer months, when swimmers sometimes find their favourite beaches invaded by these floating creatures. One of the most commonly encountered species locally is the mauve stinger, known in Maltese as brama, famous for its purple colour and painful sting. But there's much more to jellyfish than ruining your perfect beach day!
Here are some fascinating facts you probably didn't know.
1. Jellyfish Are Older Than Dinosaurs!
Jellyfish have existed for more than 500 million years, meaning they were swimming around our oceans long before dinosaurs appeared.
2. They Have No Brain Or Heart!
Believe it or not, jellyfish have no brain, heart or bones. Instead, they use a simple network of nerves to detect their surroundings and respond to changes.
3. They're Basically Made Of Water!
Around 95% of a jellyfish's body consists of water, making them one of the ocean's most unusual creatures.
4. Some Jellyfish Can Glow In The Dark!
Certain jellyfish species produce their own light through a process called bioluminescence, creating beautiful glowing displays underwater.
5. A Group Of Jellyfish Is Called A Smack!
That's right! A large gathering of jellyfish can be called a smack, although the terms bloom and swarm are also used.
In Malta, scientists even encourage the public to report jellyfish sightings through the University of Malta's Spot the Jellyfish campaign, helping researchers monitor the different species found around our islands.
So, while jellyfish might not be everyone's favourite sea creatures, they certainly deserve some appreciation today.
Have you ever been stung by a jellyfish while swimming in Malta?
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