Species

Chironex fleckeri is arguably the most notorious of all sea jellies with a dangerous sting. Chironex has killed dozens of people though, fortunately, anti-venom is now available. Stings can leave victims with permanent scarring. Chironex fleckeri is native to tropical Australian waters and, while it is normally oceanic, can be found far upstream in estuaries during breeding season (in warmer months).

They grow to 25cm with up to 60 tentacles extending to three metres in length. Along the edges of their bell are four clusters of six eyes, potentially giving them 360° vision. Because they have no brain to process images with, it is not fully understood what they can see!

For first aid, see Surf Life Saving Queensland fact sheet.