Sudden Surge of Fried-Egg Jellyfish off Santa Ponsa, Mallorca: What Beachgoers Should Know

Unusually large numbers of fried-egg jellyfish were sighted at Santa Ponsa Beach. No panic, but better to stay alert and keep your distance.

Unusual Guests Near the Shore

In the early morning yesterday, at Santa Ponça Beach, an unusually large number of jellyfish were drifting. Walkers, children with buckets, and a few sleepy cafe owners on the Passeig shrugged: they had never seen anything like this here, said a vendor at the beach kiosk around 10:15 AM as lifeguards were setting up signs.

What do they look like?

The specimens are Phacellophora camtschatica, commonly referred to as the fried-egg jellyfish. The animals have a transparent bell that can reach up to about 60 centimeters in diameter, with a distinctive yellow center — which makes them resemble a fried egg. Long, thin tentacles hang down like hair in the water.

Are they dangerous?

Stay calm: The sting of this species is considered relatively mild. Most people feel at most a slight reddening or a tingling sensation. Still, lifeguards advise not touching the jellyfish. Allergic reactions are rare but possible. If unsure, you should visit the nearest beach station; there is usually basic first aid and saltwater/vinegar-based measures.

Why now here?

Why animals that originally occurred more in the North Pacific appear off Mallorca cannot be conclusively explained. Current theories point to warmer surface water, altered currents, and human influences such as ballast water from ships. Short-term weather conditions can also drive masses of marine organisms to the coast — yesterday a light northeast wind blew, and the sea was a bit rougher than usual.

What to do if you find one?

Simply stay out of the water, keep your distance, and warn others. Photos are allowed; do not touch. If skin irritation occurs: rinse with cold water, avoid rubbing with sand or towels, and seek medical help for more pronounced symptoms. The Santa Ponsa tourist information has flyers with guidelines on display.

A small conclusion

The sheer numbers of fried-egg jellyfish are impressive, but for most beachgoers not a reason to panic. For locals it means: stay vigilant while swimming, keep a respectful distance, and stay curious how the season at the Black Rock beside the marina develops. And if you stroll along the promenade today around 6 p.m., when the sun is low, you might still see the yellow specks in the water, reminding you of breakfast.