Box Jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri)

The box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri) is found in the coastal waters of northern Australia, from Gladstone in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia, during the summer months. It is the most dangerous jellyfish, and indeed one of the most dangerous venomous creatures, in the world. It is large, weighing up to 6kg and measuring about 20-30 cm across the bell. The tentacles may stretch up to 2 metres. It is transparent in the water, and therefore difficult to see. It has 4 bundles of tentacles, which may number up to 60 in total. Each tentacle contains many millions of nematocysts or stinging cells which discharge venom through the skin on contact.

How to reduce the risk:

• Avoid swimming in areas where box jellyfish are found during the jellyfish season (variable, but approximately September to March) and heed warning signs on beaches.
• Avoid swimming alone or at remote beaches.
• Swim at beaches that have been netted to exclude box jellyfish (N.B., this will not prevent Irukandji stings, since these are much smaller than box jellyfish, and can fit through the gaps in the mesh of jellyfish nets)
• Swim at beaches patrolled by life savers, preferably equipped with vinegar, antivenom and basic resuscitation facilities
• Wear specially designed "stinger suits" while in known box jellyfish waters
• Exercise caution on entering the water (do not dive or run into the water)
• Strictly supervise children, who are more prone to stings, and whose lower body weight may render them more susceptible to the effects of the venom