300 Baby Jellyfish Found In Barnegat Bay

Researchers found nearly 300 baby clinging jellyfish in the Barnegat Bay on Thursday. The latest count has Paul Bologna, director of the Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences Program at Montclair State University, convinced there may be tens of thousands of stinging animals in areas of the bay.

The clinging jellyfish have small stature but a painful sting. They only grow up to an inch in diameter (expanding to up to 3 inches) but have 60 to 90 stinging tentacles, according to the Department of Environmental Protection. But their sting feels like "a whole body charley horse," Bologna told the Asbury Park Press.

Bologna posted the above picture in the New Jersey Jellyspotters Facebook group.

Researchers found the clinging jellyfish along the banks of the Metedeconk River, according to WHYY. Dozens were found last summer near the Barnegat Bay's Tices Shoal, a popular boating area adjacent to Island Beach State Park.

Read more: Clinging Jellyfish Found At Tices Shoal In Barnegat Bay

If you get stung, here's what the DEP says you should do:

• Apply white vinegar to the affected area to immobilize any remaining stinging cells.
• Rinse the area with saltwater and remove any remaining tentacle materials using gloves, a plastic card or a thick towel.
• Cold packs or ice can then be applied to alleviate pain. A hot compress may also be effective.
• If symptoms persist or pain increases instead of subsiding, seek prompt medical attention.