VISITORS to Ujung Pandaran Beach in East Kotawaringin Regency (Kotim), Central Kalimantan (Central Kalimantan) are advised to be careful when swimming at the beach because of the potential for jellyfish stings.
“Information from the Ujung Pandaran Beach location states that visitors are asked to be careful when swimming,” said Head of the Kotim Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Multazam K. Anwar, Tuesday (31/12).
Multazam explained that the presence of jellyfish in the waters of Ujung Pandaran Beach is influenced by several factors, including sea currents and weather conditions. Therefore, tourists are advised to always pay attention to sea conditions before swimming.
“Before entering the water, first pay attention to the sea conditions. If you see lots of jellyfish or the sea conditions are hostile, you should postpone your swimming activities,” he advised.
Lecturer at IAIN Palangka Raya Tadris Biology study program, Jumrodah, added that the abundant appearance of jellyfish on the beach surface could also be caused by migration from areas with cold temperatures to warmer temperatures.
“This usually happens from September to December. This is because during that month the pattern of sea currents in several areas experiences changes, including increasing temperatures,” he explained. This increases reproductive activity because warm water temperatures stimulate reproductive hormones in marine biota.
Jumrodah also added that eutrophication or an abundance of nutrients in waters can cause algae or phytoplankton to bloom, which in turn can increase the jellyfish population due to the abundant availability of food.
Therefore, tourists are advised to bring first aid equipment, such as antiseptic ointment, to anticipate jellyfish stings. In the event of a jellyfish sting, tourists are advised to immediately wash the affected area with sea water and seek medical attention immediately.
“Do not scratch the area affected by the jellyfish sting, as this can worsen the irritation. Rinse immediately with sea water and seek medical attention if necessary,” he added. (D-3)
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