Early jellyfish bloom good news for P.E.I. swimmers

Jellyfish along the P.E.I. coast bloomed around late May, early June

CBC News

 Posted: Jul 28, 2013 12:59 PM AT

Last Updated: Jul 28, 2013 12:59 PM AT

An early jellyfish bloom in the waters around Prince Edward Island this year is good news for Island swimmers.

The jellyfish along the coast bloomed around late May and early June, meaning the water during summer’s hottest months is clear of the current riding jellies.

“We haven't been seeing very many jellyfish along the beaches in P.E.I. National Parks this summer. I have heard people wondering if the jellyfish are coming soon and certainly it makes swimming in P.E.I. National Park more pleasant when they're not there,” said Barbara MacDonald, with Parks Canada.

MacDonald said Parks Canada isn't sure why there was an earlier bloom this year.
Last year, a similar jelly-free trend happened throughout the Maritimes.

At the time, Dalhousie marine scientist Anna Metaxas said the exceptionally warm water temperatures experienced last summer is resulting in slower ocean currents, currents that the jellyfish ride in on.

The most common type of jellyfish found in the waters around the Maritimes is the moon jelly. Its sting is not dangerous to human health but it may cause a rash and itch for a few hours.