Thousands of pink jellyfish swarm Agios Georgios bay off Dia island near Heraklion
Thousands of pink jellyfish have gathered in the waters of Agios Georgios bay on the island of Dia, off the coast of Heraklion, according to photos and visitor reports published by Cretaone.gr.
The bay lies on the southern side of the island, opposite Heraklion, and is the site of the small chapel of Anilipsi (the Ascension). Photos shared with Cretaone show the jellyfish gathered in high density across the water, according to visitors to the island.
The concentration is reportedly so dense that swimming in the bay is currently effectively impossible. The bay is a popular stop for boats and visitors on day trips from Heraklion.
What is behind the gathering
According to Cretaone, large jellyfish gatherings in a specific bay are generally linked to sea conditions and currents, which can carry jellyfish and concentrate them in sheltered spots.
High sea temperatures can also favor the growth and spread of jellyfish populations, the report notes. Shifts in the balance of the marine ecosystem, including a reduction in natural predators, have also been associated with more frequent or intense jellyfish appearances, according to Cretaone.
However, the outlet notes that there is no single confirmed cause for every mass appearance. In the case of Agios Georgios, currents and local sea conditions are likely to have contributed to the current buildup.
A “pink veil” on the water
Photos from the bay show the jellyfish covering a large area of water, creating what Cretaone described as an impressive “pink veil.”
For those on Dia, the sight is unusual, but the density of the jellyfish currently makes the bay unsuitable for swimming.
The situation could change quickly, however, as the movement of water is often enough for such concentrations to shrink, shift to another location, or disperse within a few hours, according to the report. Access restrictions around parts of Dia island have previously been in place for other reasons; swimming and boat access near Dia island has been the subject of separate official measures this year.
Visitors planning boat trips to beaches around Heraklion may want to check current conditions before heading to Agios Georgios bay.
