Hundreds of blue jellyfish have washed ashore at Tonka beach near Honnavar in Uttara Kannada district, leaving both locals and visitors perplexed. This phenomenon comes shortly after a Bryde’s whale washed ashore at the same location.
This unusual occurrence has raised questions, as it marks the first time such a large number of blue jellyfish have been spotted at Tonka beach. The influx began a few days ago, and these distinctive blue jellyfish now scatter the entire beach.
Marine experts suggest that temperature variations in the sea may be a key factor behind this phenomenon. Warmer temperatures are known to promote jellyfish blooms, increasing food availability and encouraging jellyfish reproduction.
Blue jellyfish are a type of hydroid that float on water and feed on crabs, prawns, and fish. They can spread across several miles of the sea, forming a deep blue carpet. This influx of jellyfish can disrupt the food chain, affecting prominent species such as dolphins.
Jellyfish tend to attach themselves to the fins of larger fish and dolphins, hindering their swimming abilities. As fast swimmers, dolphins may find it challenging to navigate in waters filled with jellyfish. This temporary scarcity of fish in the region can have implications for the local marine ecosystem.
The presence of these blue jellyfish serves as a reminder of the intricate relationships and delicate balance within marine ecosystems, highlighting the impact of environmental factors on sea life.