Scientists Puzzled By Jellyfish Absence In Maltese Waters
The usually abundant jellyfish have almost disappeared from Maltese waters this summer, leaving marine scientists puzzled.
According to marine biologist Alan Deidun, the absence of the gelatinous creatures is hard to explain and has raised questions across the Mediterranean.
Deidun noted that although past seasons have seen large blooms of species like the mauve stinger, none of the expected blooms have materialised so far.
He suggested several possible causes, including a predator feeding on jellyfish eggs or juveniles, or ocean currents preventing typical influxes of jellyfish from neighbouring regions.
Author's summary: Jellyfish disappearance puzzles scientists.