Officials warn that this species is not native to New Jersey waters, but has the potential to become a public health issue due to its potent sting. 

Native to the Pacific Ocean, the species has also been found from Maine to New Jersey, as well as in other parts of the world.

According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Clinging jellyfish are extremely small creatures that grow to about 1 inch in diameter. 

They are transparent in appearance and feature a distinctive reddish-orange to yellow cross, making them difficult to spot in the water.

Residents across New Jersey have been posting on social media about an increase in sightings.

One user wrote, “Our first clinging jellyfish of the season. Be aware of the shallow estuaries with vegetation like algae where they reside.”

Another posted, “Banner day on Barnegat Bay collecting clinging jellyfish. BTW, confirmed sting last Sunday of a child who spent four days in immense pain, so be careful out there.”

A third user noted, “Beachwood Beach full of jellyfish today.”

Officials say Clinging jellyfish thrive in temperate regions, particularly in shallow bays and estuarine waters where tides are not strong enough to dislodge them.

They can often be found in eelgrass beds, seaweed, and areas with abundant small marine animals.

The NJDEP says their blooms typically occur from mid-May through the summer, with adults commonly found into early August.

As a result, residents should exercise extra caution during the summer months, since encounters with the jellyfish are more likely.

If someone is stung by a Clinging jellyfish, reactions can vary depending on an individual’s sensitivity to the toxin.

While the sting can be extremely painful and may cause severe localized symptoms, no fatalities from Clinging jellyfish stings have been documented.