New Species Of Box Jellyfish Discovered In Thailand
There is so much unknown about what creatures live in our oceans but a recent discovery in Thailand has at least narrowed the mystery down by one. And this time it is a new genus and species of box jellyfish found in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.
Named Gershwinia thailandensis after renowned jellyfish expert Dr Lisa-ann Gershwin, this single-tentacle cubozoa was found through physical and molecular analyses to be distinct from its distant relatives in the Irukandji family including the Morbakka or Fire Jellyfish.
Interestingly, at least eleven species of box jellyfish have been collected in waters around Thailand in recent years with only four being described including the deadly Chironex indrasaksajiae responsible for numerous deaths and serious injury.
Gershwinia thailandensis is not believed to be a killer per se but is considered to be dangerous causing considerable pain with potential symptoms similar to Irukandji syndrome and the possibility of cardiac arrest.
This is not a big fearsome-looking animal with sample bell heights ranging from 23 to 127mm, but like Australia's infamous Irukandji that's only 10mm long in its entirety, this newly named box jellyfish is one that you'd rather not mess with.
Dr Gershwin was integral in establishing a structured approach to jellyfish science and safety in Thailand and as one of the world's most respected jellyfish taxonomists its befitting that this new box jellyfish be associated with her name.
So, here's the deal. Taxonomically. Box jellyfish or the class Cubozoa, are grouped into two orders, Chirodropida (multi-tentacle) including the deadly Chironex species and Carybdeida (single-tentacle). In the Carybdeida order is a family called Carukiidae which includes the familiar and nasty Morbakka genera amongst others. Now, it has a new genera. Gershwinia. And this new species is Gershwinia thailandensis.
Got it? Good.
Now, still keen to run with abandon on the beach into the alluring seas surrounding Thailand? Go for it. However, as we have recommended now for eons, perhaps consider - as all knowing marine biologists do - wear a stinger suit and have vinegar handy just in case you are stung.
Read the research publication here:
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