Dangerous Portuguese Man o’ War spotted near Lanzarote and Fuerteventura
The Portuguese man o’ war has once again been spotted off the northern coasts of the Canary Islands, with sightings reported in recent days around Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
The dangerous marine organism has been brought closer to shore by the strong winter swells that have affected the islands over the past few days. These conditions often push the creatures from the open ocean towards the coastline.
Unlike many sea creatures, the Portuguese man o’ war cannot swim or control its movement. It normally lives far out at sea, floating on the surface and drifting with ocean currents and winds. During periods of rough weather and strong Atlantic storms, they can be carried towards the beaches of the Canary Islands.
Authorities are urging caution when swimming, as contact with the creature’s long tentacles can cause a very painful sting. The tentacles can stretch several metres beneath the surface and are difficult to spot in the water.
Despite often being mistaken for jellyfish, the Portuguese man o’ war is actually a siphonophore (a floating colony of organisms that work together as a single entity). It is easily recognised by its small, purplish, balloon-like float that sits on the surface of the sea, with trailing stinging tentacles below.
The venom is released automatically when contact occurs. Although stings are rarely fatal, they can be dangerous for young children or people who suffer allergic reactions.
Common symptoms include intense pain at the sting site, nausea, vomiting and fever. Anyone experiencing a severe reaction is advised to seek medical attention immediately.
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