The Australian box jellyfish is a highly venomous cnidarian of tropical coastal waters. It is an agile swimmer with complex eyes, unlike most jellyfish.
Interesting facts
- Its venom is among the most potent of any animal.
- It has up to 15 tentacles on each of four corners.
- Vinegar is used as first aid to stop undischarged stinging cells from firing.
- Stinger nets and protective suits are used on northern Australian beaches.
- Its body is almost transparent in water.
- The season in northern Australia is roughly October to May.
Behaviour
Box jellyfish hunt in shallow water near beaches and river mouths, often most active in calm conditions.
Breeding and young
Adults spawn in estuaries; larvae settle as tiny polyps that later bud into young jellyfish.
Threats and conservation
Not assessed as threatened; poorly known.
Where to see it
- Best avoided; swim only in stinger-net enclosures in northern Australia during the season
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
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