A conference on the jellyfish risks in the Mediterranean this afternoon also heard the argument for the setting up of anti-jellyfish nets to protect swimmers.

The conference/training workshop was hosted by the International Ocean Institute-Malta Operational Centre (IOI-MOC) at the University of Malta to mark European Maritime Day.

It showcased an array of tools to address the jellyfish bloom phenomenon including a a smart phone application, which has just been launched by the IOI-MOC, the use of anti-jellyfish nets and training for lifeguard groups by pharmacists.

Experts also held scientific discussions on monitoring and predicting jellyfish flows.

Enrico Ribola spoke on tailored anti-jellyfish nets as a tool to keep bathing zones safe.

Such nets, he said, were floating barriers against jellyfish and algae made with nets and floats extending to the seabed.

He insisted the equipment had no impact on marine life. Nor did it have any chemical impact.

The main speaker on the situation in Malta was Alan Deidun, coordinator at the IOI-MOC who underlined how the people were being increasingly involved in monitoring jellyfish.