Istria coast experiences large jellyfish bloom

Large concentrations of jellyfish, known colloquially as ‘sunny-side up eggs’ due to their yellowish appearance, have appeared in the waters around Istria, Croatia. Significant numbers have been recorded near Pula, Rovinj, and Poreč, with some areas seeing approximately two adult jellyfish per square meter.

Experts from the University of Pula and the Pula Aquarium state that the species, Cotylorhiza tuberculata, poses little danger to humans. Their stinging cells are generally too weak to penetrate human skin, typically causing only mild tingling rather than pain or visible irritation. However, specialists advise against touching them or removing them from the water, noting that the jellyfish provide shelter for young fish.

The yellowish color of these jellyfish is the result of a symbiotic relationship with algae living in their tissue. Their presence near the coast is attributed to wind and sea currents pushing them toward the shore.