A group of marine researchers discovered several new species of box jellyfish in Philippine waters, a surprising discovery that could help deepen the understanding of these undocumented species.
These species belong to the box jellyfish called carybdeid jellyfish, known for their cube-shaped metal and strong venom. It is often found in warm coastal waters such as the Philippines.
Among the important discoveries are the first land records of Alatina alata, Carybdea cuboides, Malo sp., and Morbakka virulenta. The researchers also confirmed the new records of Copula Copula sivickis and Malo filipina.
The marine research team consisted of Russel Christine Corcino and Dr. Lemnuel Aragones from the University of the Philippines- Diliman College of Science’s Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology.
It is also combined with Dr. Sheldon Rey Boco and Christine Gloria Grace Capidos of the Philippine Jellyfish Stings Project, Dr. Phuping Sucharitakul of the Batavia Coast Maritime Institute in Western Australia; Ram Yoro of RY Photography; Dennis Corpuz of Anilao Critters Studio; and Scott Tuason of Squires Sports Philippines.
But, why bother reading them? Mrs. Boco said that studying the carybdeid jellyfish is important as it is part of the diet in the sea and its presence or absence can indicate the health of the marine environment.
“They eat small creatures and they are food for big ones, they help keep everything in order,” Ms Boco said in a press release.
Also, he noted that their venom is strong enough to cause hospitalization, making research into how their venom works lead to better treatments and help save more lives.
During their research, the team combined different methods such as on-site observations and the use of high-quality underwater photographs and video. They also use citizen science participation verified through digital verification.
Mrs. Boco said spotting them is “a big challenge,” with most of the hard-to-reach coastal marine animals at least 100 meters from shore and at depths of 20 to 30 meters.
From 2017 to 2021 and 2024, the team performed various black water dives in open water, each requiring strict preparation and certification. They observed and documented the carybdeid box jellyfish’s visible swimming pattern, called the medusa stage.
Mrs. Boco said the team also collected photos and videos from recreational divers using citizen science, but proving their authenticity is a challenge, especially with artificial intelligence that is now capable of creating deceptive images of fake jellyfish.
Looking ahead, the team plans to make citizen science easier and faster by eliminating the need to fill out lengthy forms. They also intend to conduct more research in the area during night dives to better understand jellyfish behavior and environmental conditions.
The team ultimately aims to predict where carybdeid jellyfish will appear now and in the future, not only locally but also in nearby oceans.
The Philippines is located within the Coral Triangle, a region known as one of the richest areas in the world for marine biodiversity and is an important habitat for these jellyfish species. – Edg Adrian A. Eva
