Chiropsalmus jellyfish

Chiropsalmus jellyfish are similar to but smaller than the box jellyfish, Chironex fleckeri. There are currently thought to be a number of species belonging to this genus occurring in Australian waters. The bell measures up to 7cm, and the number of tentacles on each of the pedalia (fleshy arms) seldom exceeds nine. The tentacles are shorter and finer than those of box jellyfish. Its venom contains lethal, dermatonecrotic and haemolytic properties in approximately the same proportions as box jellyfish venom, but the venom output of Chiropsalmus is much less and the toxicity of the venom is approximately one sixth of the toxicity of box jellyfish venom. Stinging results in severe pain and shock, but the illness is less severe than that of the box jellyfish. Residual scarring is usually minimal. No deaths from the sting of these animals have been reported in Australia, although there have been deaths attributed to this genus in the Philippines. Box jellyfish antivenom has been shown experimentally to neutralize Chiropsalmus venom, but clinical experience is lacking.