Cnidarians

Cnidaria are a group of primitive marine invertebrates composed of animals such as Jellyfish, Coral, Anemone and Hydrozoans/Siphonophores such as Portuguese Man-'O' War.

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Cnidarians are commonly classified by their gelatinous-like bodies and lack of a centralised nervous system like most other animals, making them especially unique. They also posses long, flowing appendages known as 'flagella' that tangle and snare prey. These more often than not, are venomous although not all are harmful to humans (for example, only a handful Sea Anemone species have the ability to sting humans).

Cnidarians often times can be dangerous, especially 'Jimble' (Carybdea rastoni) so it is advised against interacting with or touching any animal within this classification as it is better to be safe than sorry (even if I specify that the species in question is not generally considered to be harmful to humans)

There is common misconception that you can ease the pain from Jellyfish (and by extention, other Cnidarian) stings by urinating on them. Please DO NOT pee on stings, as it often makes the pain worse and is franky quite gross. If you are stung, the pain can be better eased with the application of White Vinegar. If you are stung, please also seek medical attention immediately. 

 

Below you will find a comprehensive guide on all the Cnidarians I have observed in Whyalla and its surrounding regions.