What Are Medusozoans, and Why Do They Sting?

Abstract

Medusozoans are marine animals without backbones that live near the coasts, or in the depths of the oceans. Some of them are large, but others are even tinier than a seed. Medusozoans have been living on Earth for more than 600 million years. Their bodies are 95% water. Some medusozoans live attached to a surface, but others can swim freely. All medusozoans have tentacles, armed with stinging cells called nematocysts. When the nematocysts are triggered, the tiny stingers inside them can travel at speeds up to 67 km per hour. Around 3% of medusozoans are harmful to humans. Therefore, when visiting beaches where these harmful medusozoans live, it is necessary to take some precautions. Wearing protective clothing and not touching a medusozoan stranded on the beach will help you stay safe and healthy, so you can enjoy your beach day!