(MWN / 06-12-09)  The previous week a tourist was attacked by this rare species in Australia, and he stays in the ICU since then. This jellyfish, discovered in 2006 by the marine biologist Lisa Ann Gershwin, produces a sting that is said to be as painful as childbirth.

Irukandi jellyfish is a tiny jellyfish very poisonous that lives in waters in the north of Australia. It is just 2 inches long, although its tentacles can reach up to 31.5 inches. Because of its small size, this rare species is particularly dangerous, because it is almost impossible to see it in the water.

Tourists that approach to Australian coasts are warned of the risk they run if they do not use special suits. Nevertheless, these suits (lighter than neoprene) are not a guarantee either, since they do not cover the face, hands or feet. In many cases, authorities recommend avoiding baths.

Between October and May, the presence of this jellyfish is very common in tropical waters in northeast Australia.

The sting of these marine creatures is very painful (it is compared to pain in childbirth) and can be deadly due to the high concentration of poison.

The latest incident of sting by Irukandji occurred last Thursday, as reported from Times Online. A tourist who was aboard a boat near South Molle Island, Queensland (Australia), was stung by one of these jellyfish.

The man, aged 29, plunged into the water with a special suit anti bites. Unfortunately, a jellyfish stung him in the face, which is not covered by the suit.

He was carried to the island immediately, with terrible pain, suffering spasms and shock. There he was practiced first aid, but he had to wait about 40 minutes for the arrival of the helicopter that took him to hospital. The victim stays in the Intensive Care Unit since then.