Secret to stopping jellyfish sting

Richard Collins on how the clownfish holds the key to a new anti-sting lotion.

The seas around Ireland are at their warmest just now and it’s a good time to bathe. Despite claims to the contrary, the great white shark, of Jaws fame, has not arrived here yet and the Irish swimmer’s most fearful enemy is still the humble jellyfish. Not that this little creature, with its pulsating bell, bears swimmers any ill will; jellyfish sting only in self-defence.

However, if you should blunder into the dangling tentacles of some of the larger species, your refreshing dip may end in tears. But fear not, help may soon be at hand; Dr David Boulware of the University of Minnesota has developed the jellyfish equivalent of sunblock. Apply it to the skin before entering the water and you can swim in peace.