While it is certainly good news for families who can now head outdoors to visit attractions such as Singapore Zoo, Jurong Bird Park, S.E.A Aquarium among others, it is still advised to exercise caution and vigilance.
A highly venomous Box jellyfish was spotted in Sentosa waters just recently on 3 July 2020.
It caught the attention of Marine Stewards, an environmental conservation organisation, after coming across a video shared by a netizen.
Sighting of Deadly Box Jellyfish in Sentosa Waters
They are now reminding visitors to take caution if they are swimming in the sea.
As for those who plan to swim off a boat, Marine Stewards also reminded that the captain should always keep a lookout of the jellyfish, stating that jellyfishes that are near the surface can be seen from a height or distance.
Traversing the waters, the box jellyfish could look unassuming but is in fact very deadly.
According to reports, jellyfishes are ranked top five of the 20 deadliest animals on Earth, with the stings of the box jellyfish species being extremely fatal to humans.
They are known to be the most toxic animal on earth, containing toxins that attack the heart, nervous system, and skin cells.
NParks Alerted, Visitors to Take Caution
According to Marine Stewards, NParks has been alerted of this incident and is currently looking into this issue closely, while trying to collect more information.
In the meantime, the public is advised to avoid swimming in Sentosa waters for at least in the two coming weeks, to be on the safe side.
While this might just be a “single sighting”, all visitors are advised to stay vigilant.
And in the event where visitors do come across further box jellyfishes, they are advised to help take some photographs or videos to help authorities speed up the search of these deadly creatures.
They can inform NParks and/or post to Marine Stewards immediately, together with the location where it was found.
Appearance and Dangers to Humans
This is how the box jellyfish looks like:
Photo: Facebook screengrab
It can grow up to 10 feet long (3 metres) and 10 inches across.
Here is a clearer image, of the Box Jellyfish that is pale blue and transparent in colour. Their bell is also shaped in the form of a cube.
Photo: iStock
According to National Geographic, venom from this creature could lead to human victims experiencing severe outcomes:
- Inflicting extreme pain that causes shock and eventual drowning
- Death from heart failure—even before reaching the shore
- Pain for weeks and significant scarring (for survivors)
We can all play our part and help prevent any possible harm inflicted on our community.
Parents, just a word of caution to be mindful especially with young children who are naturally curious. Stay clear from the waters as much as possible and avoid touching the jellyfish if ever spotted.
Photo: iStock, Facebook screengrab via Facebook/Marine Stewards
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