About Tamoya haplonema F.Müller, 1859
Tamoya haplonema is a box jellyfish species belonging to the genus Tamoya. It was first described by F. Müller in 1859, and is the designated type species of its genus. Mature medusae of this species have four tentacles, with one tentacle growing from each inter-radial pedal. This species is native to the western Atlantic Ocean. Specimens have been recorded across a range extending from Argentina north to Long Island. A small number of specimens have also been found in the Gulf of Mexico, off the coasts of Mississippi and Alabama. Early records suggested this species occurred off the coast of Africa, but these sightings are now recognized to belong to a separate species, Tamoya ancamori. Like other box jellyfish, Tamoya haplonema is highly venomous, and it is known to sting humans. For a sting from this species, vinegar should be applied to deactivate remaining nematocysts in the skin. A cold compress made with seawater should also be applied to the affected area.
