A man-o-war sting is the result of contact with the venom-filled nematocysts located on the long, thin tendrils of a Portuguese man-of-war.
Understanding the Man-of-War and Its Sting
The Portuguese man-of-war is a marine hydrozoan with long tendrils (up to 165 feet, but averaging around 30 feet) that dangle below the surface of the water. These tendrils are equipped with nematocysts.
Nematocysts: The Culprits
Nematocysts are venom-filled stinging cells. When a human comes into contact with these nematocysts, they discharge, injecting venom into the skin. This venom is designed to paralyze and kill fish and other small creatures.
Effects of the Sting
For humans, a man-of-war sting is known to be excruciatingly painful but rarely deadly. The venom causes:
- Immediate and intense pain
- Red welts on the skin
- Muscle cramps
- Numbness
- Potential allergic reactions in some individuals
While typically not fatal, severe stings can lead to systemic symptoms that require medical attention.
