Species Malo kingi Gershwin, 2007

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• Malo kingi Gershwin, L. 2007. Malo kingi: A new species of Irukandji jellyfish (Cnidaria: Cubozoa: Carybdeida), possibly lethal to humans, from Queensland, Australia. Zootaxa 1659: 55–68 [55-68, figs. 1-4].

  Type data:

   Holotype QM G317361 ♂ (Col: R. Hore, 03/1997), Port Douglas Marina, Dickson Inlet, QLD.
  Paratype(s) SAMA H968 ♂, Harbour Beach, Mackay, QLD; AMS G16005 ♂, same data as SAMA H968; MTQ G55276 ♀, same data as SAMA H968.

Distribution

States

Queensland

Ecological Descriptors

Carnivorous, marine, neritic.

Diagnosis

Malo with halo-like rings encircling tentacles; nematocysts inserted end-on into edges of rings, radiating outward; velarial canals with one root per octant, palmate, with 4 digitiform extensions; bell with pale purple nematocyst warts.

Notes

This species has been linked with a fatal sting to a previously healthy person; in numerous other cases it has been linked with extremely hypertensive events requiring life support. For these reasons, this species is considered highly dangerous and contact should be avoided if possible.

Symptoms of this version of Irukandji syndrome include severe lower back pain, profuse sweating, full body cramps and spasms, difficulty breathing, and severe hypertension (e.g., 280/180). Some patients also experience nausea and vomiting. Complications from the syndrome can include brain haemmorhage (stroke), pulmonary oedema (including heart failure), and death.

In the event of a sting or suspected sting, rinse the area with vinegar to inactivate remaining undischarged stinging cells. If symptoms develop, call for an ambulance. Treatment outcomes are generally good if prompt medical attention is sought.

History of changes