Large dead jellyfish stings beachgoers in NH

Image of a Lion's Mane jellyfish via Wikipedia

RYE, N.H. (AP) - New Hampshire authorities say about 100 people have been stung by a large dead jellyfish that broke into pieces at a state park beach, and nine children were treated at a hospital.

Wallis Sands State Park Manager Ken Loughlin says lifeguards spotted the jellyfish, which he described as the size of a "turkey platter" and weighing nearly 50 pounds.

Rye Fire Department Lieutenant says the jellyfish fell apart when the state park staff tried to remove it on Wednesday, and its stingers were still active even though it was dead.

Doug Grout, chief of marine fisheries for the state, says it's a Lion's Mane jellyfish, a species rarely seen so far south and in shallow waters. In northern New England, they average 8 feet in diameter and can have tentacles as long as 150 feet.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.