SAN DIEGO ---- Scientists say a rare species of dark purple jellyfish is showing up in San Diego Bay and washing ashore on beaches.
Dr. Nigella Hillgarth of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography said Tuesday that the Birch Aquarium has four of the jellies for display.
Hillgarth said the black sea nettle has turned up in coastal waters more frequently in recent years. Oceanographers don't know why, but guess that it could be due to warmer oceans or changes in the plankton populations that they eat.
The jellyfish can grow up to 3 feet across with 30-foot-long tentacles.
Hillgarth said they sting, so boaters and beachgoers should admire them without touching.
