by Texas Coast – Visitors along the Texas coastline were stunned this week by sightings of several rare and enormous pink jellyfish, commonly referred to as the “pink meanie.” These remarkable creatures showcased their cotton candy-colored bodies and incredibly expansive tentacles stretching up to 70 feet, simultaneously fascinating and horrifying beachgoers.
More than ten of these astonishing jellyfish were reported along a 10-mile stretch of Texas beach, according to Jace Tunnell, the director of community engagement at the Harte Research Institute. The pink jellyfish, scientifically known as Drymonema larsoni, can weigh over 50 pounds, making their presence impossible to ignore.
Rare Appearance Tied to Moon Jellyfish Influx
Tunnell has been eager to capture footage of the elusive pink meanie and revealed that their arrival around this time of year coincides with an influx of moon jellyfish, their primary source of food. Moon jellies, or Aurelia aurita, are characterized by their translucent bodies and are one of the most common jellyfish species in the Gulf of Mexico.
Pink meanies only bloom when there is a large population of moon jellyfish present. Tunnell explained,
“If there’s no moon jellies, they die off real quick. If the water gets cold, they die off real quick. So to be able to see them is pretty rare.”
Not As Dangerous As They Look
Despite their intimidating size and menacing name, pink meanies possess a relatively mild sting. Tunnell rated their sting a two out of ten on the pain scale. Nevertheless, beachgoers are advised to exercise caution when encountering them.
In case of a sting, Tunnell recommends using vinegar to remove tentacles and reduce the sting’s effect. He also warned against consuming the jellyfish, noting they are not edible despite their tempting cotton candy appearance. As he noted in a recent video,
“This is one of the jellyfish that people aren’t eating.”
Geographical Range and Ecological Impact
Pink meanies have been observed not only in the Gulf of Mexico but also in the Mediterranean Sea and waters around South Africa. Being mostly composed of water, these jellyfish quickly evaporate after washing ashore, while local scavengers such as birds and crabs feast on them.
Key Facts About Pink Meanie Jellyfish
- Scientific Name: Drymonema larsoni
- Weight: Over 50 pounds
- Tentacle Length: Up to 70 feet
- Primary Food Source: Moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita)
- Sting Severity: Mild (2/10)
- Geographical Locations: Gulf of Mexico, Mediterranean Sea, waters near South Africa
This fascinating but rare appearance of pink meanies has attracted both scientists and curious beach visitors alike, capturing imaginations with their surreal presence along the Texas coast. For more detailed information, visit The Independent.
What Do These Pink Meanies Mean for Beachgoers?
While the sightings are a unique spectacle, experts recommend respecting the natural habitat of these unusual jellyfish. Pink meanies serve an important role within the marine ecosystem by controlling moon jellyfish populations.
Beach visitors should remain vigilant, avoid touching these creatures, and spread awareness about their delicate nature. Observing these rare pink jellyfish can be a thrilling reminder of the diversity and mystery lurking beneath our oceans’ surface.
What do you think about these rare pink jellyfish sightings? Have you ever encountered a pink meanie along the Texas coast or elsewhere? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!
