Invasive jellyfish swarm Texas beaches, causing new concerns

The Australian white‑spotted jellyfish, an invasive species native to the western Pacific, is increasingly appearing along the Texas coast. Known scientifically as Phyllorhiza punctata, this jellyfish poses a threat to local marine ecosystems by consuming large amounts of plankton and outcompeting native species such as shrimp and juvenile fish. Though their sting is mild, their dense swarms can disrupt food chains and clog fishing gear. First spotted in the Gulf of Mexico in 2000, their numbers have grown, possibly due to warming waters and ocean currents, as reported by the Chronicle. Researchers urge the public to report sightings to help track their spread.