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Thousands of residents and holidaymakers in Mediterranean countries, including Gozo and Malta have been stung by jellyfish as huge swarms continue to invade coastal waters this summer. It is estimated that at least 30,000 people have been stung by jelly fish in the Mediterranean this summer.
Some Spanish beaches have been closed because the jellyfish swarms have been so intense. Sicily and North Africa are also reported to have been badly affected.
Marine biologists blame the hotter drier weather for the swarms of jellyfish inundating Mediterranean shores, whilst over fishing is also thought to be increasing the jellyfish numbers.
Francesc Peters of the Institute of Marine Science in Barcelona said that coastal waters were warmer than usual, because of the hot weather, and saltier than usual because of low river flows leading the offshore waters which jellyfish usually inhabit to be washed closer to the coast. He also stated that global warming could mean that these jellyfish influxes will occur more frequently.
Mediterranean jellyfish do not have lethal or powerful stings, but Mr Peters warned that some people may suffer a powerful allergic reaction.
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