The Pink Meanie jellyfish, Drymonema larsoni, is a massive true jellyfish first formally described in 2010. This scyphozoan possesses a potent stinging capacity, making its biology and potential hazard a subject of public interest. Understanding the physical characteristics of this large organism and the mechanism of its sting provides necessary context for managing the risk it presents to swimmers and beachgoers.
Identifying the Pink Meanie Jellyfish
The Pink Meanie is one of the largest jellyfish species, with its bell often reaching diameters up to 91 centimeters (three feet). Historical observations suggest some individuals can grow even larger, exceeding two meters in diameter. Its name is derived from its coloration, which is typically a translucent pink hue. Younger specimens can be a more vibrant, fluorescent pink, while older ones may appear salmon-colored.
Extending from the bell are elaborate oral arms and hundreds of tentacles that can trail behind the animal for up to 30 meters. This large “fishing volume” is a key adaptation for capturing its prey. The Pink Meanie is primarily found in the Gulf of Mexico, but its range also includes the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, and Bermuda. The appearance of large numbers, often called a bloom, is sporadic, occurring typically in the late summer or early fall when its preferred prey is abundant.
The Sting Hazard and Toxicity
A sting from a Pink Meanie jellyfish is hazardous because the animal is an obligate predator of other jellyfish, requiring a robust stinging apparatus. The stinging cells, called nematocysts, are microscopic capsules housed along the tentacles and are deployed upon contact. These cells inject a complex venom composed of bioactive substances, including enzymes and pore-forming proteins.
The venom’s purpose is to quickly immobilize and break down prey, typically moon jellyfish (Aurelia species). When a human is stung, the toxins cause immediate, intense pain, localized redness, and raised welts on the skin. While the venom is potent, a sting from Drymonema larsoni is generally not life-threatening to humans. The severity of the reaction is directly related to the amount of skin surface area contacted by the tentacles. A large-scale envenomation can result in significant pain and a persistent, itchy rash lasting several days. The reaction is primarily a local toxic effect causing inflammation, rather than a systemic neurotoxic effect.
Immediate Care Following a Sting
The immediate action following a Pink Meanie sting is to prevent any remaining, unfired stinging cells on the skin from releasing more venom. If visible tentacle fragments are present, they should be carefully removed using tweezers or a gloved hand. It is important to avoid rubbing or scraping the area, as this can trigger the discharge of more nematocysts.
Rinsing the affected area with household vinegar (5% acetic acid) is the recommended initial step to deactivate any unfired stinging cells. Following this deactivation, the primary treatment for pain relief is the application of heat. The affected limb or area should be immersed in hot water, approximately 43°C to 45°C (110°F to 113°F), for 20 to 45 minutes, as this temperature helps to denature the venom’s heat-sensitive proteins.
It is advised to avoid rinsing the sting with fresh water, cold water, or human urine, as these substances can trigger the remaining nematocysts to fire, worsening the envenomation. Medical attention should be sought immediately if the person experiences difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or tongue, or if the sting covers a large portion of the body. Over-the-counter pain relievers or topical hydrocortisone cream can be used to manage residual pain and itching after the initial first aid steps are completed.