Cairns Marine Stinger Seasons

North Queensland's marine and estuarine environment is home to many interesting animals, including some harmful jellyfish collectively known as marine stingers. These small marine stingers are easy to avoid but can cause discomfort if you are stung, and some of the tropical species, such as the Irukandji and Chironex fleckeri (the Box Jellyfish) can be lethal. So, to ensure you enjoy your day at the beach or Great Barrier Reef, always remember to swim at a patrolled beach and look out for the safety signs. if visiting the Great Barrier Reef always use the lycra "stinger suits" offered. Sometimes there is a small fee charged as these suits are very lightweight and need to be replaced often.

Marine stingers are classified under the Phylum Cnidaria, being a group of animals that occur in polyp and/or medusa phases, are radially symmetrical, usually with tentacles and contain stinging cells produced by the animal itself. Examples of Cnidarians include a range of animals from corals and sea anemones to hydroids and marine stingers. The three classes of marine stingers that can inflict a painful sting include the Class Hydroza, Class Scyphozoa and Class Cubozoa. The term 'box' jellyfish can often confuse people as it is a general term used to describe Cubozoan jellyfish, including Irukandji, the Jimble and Chironex fleckeri (commonly known as 'box jellyfish'). Whilst these are the individuals pose the greatest threat, within the other two classes are the blue bottle and hair jelly which can cause much discomfort. The intensity and severity of the sting from a marine stinger varies with geographical location and a the health and fitness of the victim.