Be Warned: Stinging Hydroids Are Why You Shouldn’t Rub Submerged Ropes In Malta
Have you ever been to the beach and got a weird stinging feeling, but knew that you weren’t stung by a jellyfish?
Marine biologist Alan Deidun has offered a simple warning – together with an explanation – about stinging hydroids, which at first glance only seem like seagrass.
“The reason why you should not rub or stroke a submerged rope or parts of a float – stinging hydroids,” Deidun wrote on a popular Maltese jellyfish group.
“These belong to the same group as jellyfish and are venomous, therefore will sting, with skin rashes following direct contact,” he explained.
These hydroids can inflict painful burning stings that take a long time to heal. Even a slight brush against it on bare skin will cause an immediate fiery reaction, raising painful welts that itch for a long time.
Similarly to a jellyfish sting, you should never rinse the rash with fresh water, but instead rinse it using seawater.
Then, if you’ve got some vinegar or bicarbonate handy, apply some to the area to make sure it heals quickly.
Don’t worry though – you’ll survive.
Photos by: Alan Deidun
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