UCC Hosts World Jellyfish Blooms Conference

7 Jul 2026

University College Cork (UCC) recently welcomed more than 150 marine biologists from around the world for the World Jellyfish Blooms Conference, a major international gathering focused on advancing our understanding of jellyfish and their role in marine ecosystems.

Over five days, researchers shared the latest findings from across the field of jellyfish science. Topics ranged from global trends in jellyfish abundance and the discovery of new species to cutting-edge molecular techniques, electronic tagging of jellyfish movements, interactions between jellyfish and aquaculture, sting management, and the ecological importance of jellyfish in the high seas.

The conference attracted delegates from across the globe, including researchers from India, China, Australia, Brazil, Cuba, South Africa, Europe and the United States, highlighting the international importance of jellyfish research and marine conservation.

The event was co-hosted by Dr Tom Doyle, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UCC and Dr Cathy Lucas, University of Southampton. Reflecting on the conference, Dr Doyle said he was extremely honoured to welcome the global jellyfish research community to Cork and UCC.

Held every three years, the World Jellyfish Blooms Conference has previously taken place in the United States, Australia, Japan, Argentina, Spain, South Africa and India. Following its successful Cork gathering, the conference will next travel to Brazil.

The conference was supported by Fáilte Ireland, the Marine Institute and Mowi Ireland, helping to bring together leading experts to explore some of the most pressing questions facing marine ecosystems worldwide.