::Nikoneer

gallery

In New Orleans, Audubon is applied to four major attractions, the Audubon Zoo, photos of which I've already posted to this gallery, the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, and the Audubon Aquarium, of which this white Moon Jellyfish is one of many residents. My close capture allows one to see the interior structure of the jelly a little better, along with this variety's ultra-fine hair tentacles along the bottom of the bell. The odd lights inside are from the back of the exhibit, shining through the jelly's body. Although having dove various places in the Pacific, PADI-certified while in the Navy and stationed in Yokosuka, Japan (where Trump was just visiting), I have never been stung by a jelly. For some people it's a low-grade pain. For others it's a wallop. The aquarium tells visitors that vinegar is handy for reducing that pain. Something one should keep in mind, though, is that jellyfish toxin is cumulative; once it's injected into us it never truly breaks down and is flushed. Each new sting means more toxin has been added, building up over a lifetime of ocean swimming. For some people, a hundred stings won't put a dent in their natural resistance to the toxin, while for others it could be the fortieth, or fourth sting that overwhelms them. Your best bet is to make sure you simply don't get stung. Otherwise, they're certainly beautiful and calming critters to watch, aren't they? 6.17-12