Very dangerous
Chiropsalmus quadrumanus
Cubozoa (Chirodropidae)
Nicknamed the "four-handed box jellyfish", this cubozoan is a formidable predator with advanced vision thanks to rhopalia containing true lens-bearing eyes. It actively swims to hunt small fish and crustaceans.
Sting symptoms
Very intense and immediate burning, linear whip-like skin welts, risk of respiratory difficulties, muscle spasms, and cardiorespiratory distress. Requires urgent medical assistance.
Identification
Transparent and translucent cubic umbrella, almost invisible in the water. It is distinguished by its 4 branched lower corners (pedalia) shaped like "hands", each bearing 7 to 9 long tentacles.
Size
Umbrella: 8 to 15 cm / Tentacles: up to 2 to 3 m
Habitat
Warm coastal waters, lagoons, estuaries, and shallow sandy bays (Western Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean).
Scientific family
Cubozoa (Chirodropidae)
Community photos
Photos submitted and verified by Meduseo users. (1)
05/09/2026
Pawleys Island
05/09/2026
Pawleys Island