Carukia barnesi

Common card · No. 419705

Carukia barnesi is an extremely venomous box jellyfish found near Australia. Stings can result in Irukandji syndrome, and this species is commonly known as Irukandji jellyfish, although this name does not distinguish it from other Irukandji jellyfish such as Malo kingi. A mature C. barnesi's bell is only 12 by 30 millimetres (0.47 by 1.18 in) in height. It has four contractile tentacles, one extending from each bottom "corner" of its bell, ranging in length from 5 to 50 centimetres (2.0 to 19.7 in). The species was discovered by Jack Barnes of Cairns, Australia. While on an exploration mission aimed at determining the reason for Irukandji syndrome, Barnes allowed himself, a lifeguard, and his 9-year-old son to be stung by the jellyfish. Carukia barnesi is a soft-bodied marine organism. This species falls within the Medusozoa subphylum and the Cubozoa class. It is a type of "box jellyfish" that is known for producing potent venom and is known for inflicting the Irukandji syndrome.

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