Kaohsiung beachgoers warned of Portuguese man o’war

高雄海灘遊客警告警惕僧帽水母

Warning signs posted about dangers of encountering jellyfish-like organism


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Kaohsiung City Marine Bureau has warned the public that the Portuguese man o’war is poisonous and should not be touched, prompting many to avoid the water at Sizihwan Beach.

The man o’war is mostly translucent with blue tentacles. Although it resembles a jellyfish, it is classified as a siphonophore and delivers a venomous sting similar to that of a bee, with pain lasting two to three hours, per UDN.

In some cases, the venom can affect lymph nodes and trigger allergic reactions that may be fatal. Other symptoms include fever and shock.

Warning signs have been posted at the entrance to Sizihwan, advising the public not to touch the creature and to stay out of the water. After seeing the notice, one netizen searched the beach and quickly spotted a man o’war.

The individual said the Portuguese man o’war he found was about half the length of his index finger. He urged beachgoers to wear shoes or sandals during coastal activities.

The Marine Bureau said the species is commonly found along beaches in Taiwan and other countries, and appears more frequently during its breeding season from April to July.

Kaohsiung authorities have dispatched staff to the beach to remind visitors to be cautious and stay out of the water. Cleanup crews are also on patrol to remove the creatures from the shore.

With the recent stretch of good weather, more tourists have been heading to Kaohsiung's beaches. However, the public is reminded to exercise caution and avoid contact with any jellyfish-like marine organisms.