Jellyfish Trend Analysis

This chart displays the evolution of jellyfish sightings reported by users across different coastal regions. The data presented is based exclusively on user reports collected through our participatory science platform.

Data Source

The information visualized in this graph comes from user-submitted reports. Each point represents the number of cities where jellyfish affecting swimming (in notable quantities) were reported for that specific day. It's important to note that this data reflects only reported sightings, not the actual jellyfish population.

Chart Features

The chart compares two datasets:

• Current Year (solid line): Shows data from the last 365 days

• Previous Year (dotted line): Shows data from the year before, aligned by date for easier comparison

The moving average feature (7-day default) smooths daily fluctuations to highlight broader trends. This helps identify seasonal patterns and year-over-year changes in jellyfish presence reports.

Interpretation Notes

When interpreting this data, please consider:

• Data depends on user participation and may vary by region

• Higher values indicate more cities reporting jellyfish that impact swimming

• Local weather conditions, marine currents, and water temperature affect jellyfish distribution

• The comparison between years helps identify unusual patterns or emerging trends

This visualization tool supports our ongoing monitoring of jellyfish populations and helps coastal communities prepare for potential blooms.