From dockwatch.disl.org

   TOver the past fifteen years, scientists have documented a dramatic increase in the abundance of jellyfish in the northern Gulf of Mexico and Florida waters. Not only have local species increased, but "exotic" species from as far as Australia have begun to make their home in these coastal waters. This proliferation of jellyfish in our waters could have a significant impact on coastal ecology as well as on commercial fishing and tourism. The biggest question remains, why are we seeing more jellyfish and why are exotic species appearing in our waters. The greatest challenge for studying jellyfish are not the extensive resources required, but limited resources available. A research effort called Dockwatch unites scientists and the public in a joint effort to study jellyfish and educate the public. Dockwatch depends on volunteers from the Gulf Coast and eastern Florida to collect data twice a week from a range of habitats and locations. They record the time of day, water temperature, water quality, air temperature, weather, salinity and biological information on native and invasive jellyfish. Volunteers are provided with all the necessary training and equipment to complete the observations, including an identification guide, and "watches" are estimated to take approximately 15 minutes. For more info or to join the effort visit: www.dockwatch.disl.org or call: (800) 250-9465.