Mélamines à Malte 2025

Les gelés, animaux marins gélatineux, nagent librement en Méditerranée et sont généralement non agressifs. Mais la reproduction des méduses a augmenté ces dernières années en raison de la surpêche et des changements climatiques. Lorsque la mer se réchauffe (généralement en avril) ou commence à se refroidir (généralement en septembre), on peut voir de grands essaims de méduses à travers la côte et dans les baies.

L'été est également considéré comme une saison de méduse élevée. La méduse la plus commune à Malte est la Mauve Stingers, qui sont généralement trouvés près de la surface de l'eau pendant des périodes de lumière diminuée ou après lavage sur la plage. Ils ne sont pas mortels mais leurs piqûres emballent un coup de poing. Ils sont plus difficiles à repérer quand ils flottent en solitaire. Par conséquent, vous pouvez ne pas le remarquer mais seulement sentir une piqûre. Une autre espèce de méduse a été enregistrée autour de Malte est la soi-disant méduse tachetée australienne qui peut infliger une piqûre très légère quand on vient en contact avec elle

Easily identifiable by its translucent, moon-like appearance, the Moon Jellyfish has a mild sting compared to other species. Its venom is less potent, making it less of a threat to swimmers.

Known locally as il-Qassats, the Fried Egg Jellyfish is distinctive with its yellow, egg-yolk-like appearance. This species does not sting, making it harmless to humans. It is commonly seen from the end of summer through autumn.

Jellyfish cannot swim against currents; instead, they drift with the tides and winds. This behavior explains why they often appear in large groups or swarms. Overfishing and climate change have contributed to their increased presence in the Mediterranean, including Maltese waters. Notably, jellyfish populations surge when the sea temperature rises in April and cools down in September.

The best way to see jellyfish underwater is by snorkeling or diving in clear, calm waters where these fascinating creatures are often found. Snorkeling offers a closer and more immersive experience, allowing you to observe jellyfish in their natural habitat with minimal disturbance. Dive sites around Malta, such as the Blue Lagoon in Comino, are popular for their abundant marine life and crystal-clear waters, providing an ideal environment to view various jellyfish species up close. Always keep a safe distance to avoid stings, and consider joining a guided tour for expert insights and safe practices.

Understanding jellyfish behavior, recognizing safe swimming areas, and knowing how to treat stings are crucial for enjoying Malta's beach season. Beaches in Malta use a purple flag to indicate the presence of jellyfish. Paying attention to these warnings can help you avoid stings. Additionally, checking wind directions and local beach reports can provide valuable information about jellyfish activity.

If stung by a jellyfish, immediately exit the water to prevent further contact. Rinse the affected area with seawater, as fresh water can aggravate the sting. Use a flat object, like a credit card, to gently scrape off any remaining tentacles. If available, apply vinegar to neutralize the venom. To treat the sting, apply hydrocortisone cream or take an oral antihistamine to reduce itching and swelling. Seek medical help for severe reactions, difficulty breathing, or extensive stings.

In 2022, visitors strolling along South Street in Valletta were treated to a vibrant display of multicolored jellyfish hanging above their heads. This artistic installation, titled "When the Sea Stings" (‘Meta l-Baħar Iniggeż’), was likely inspired by the increasing jellyfish populations in Maltese waters. Valletta Cultural Agency Chairman Jason Micallef explained that this installation was part of a series of artistic displays set up every three months as part of the agency’s cultural program, enriching the capital city's streets with imaginative and thought-provoking art.