Clownfish mucus may hold the key to jellyfish sting prevention
NCT ID NCT00114894
First seen Jul 30, 2026 · Last updated Jul 31, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This field study tests whether a topical lotion based on clownfish mucus can prevent jellyfish stings in real ocean conditions. Healthy volunteers planning to snorkel for 30–45 minutes apply the lotion before entering the water. The trial compares the sting-inhibitor lotion against a standard sunscreen placebo to see if it reduces the number of stings.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- a topical jellyfish sting inhibitor based on clownfish mucus, called Safe Sea
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a reliable way to prevent jellyfish stings for swimmers and snorkelers worldwide.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small field test with only 12 participants, and lab results may not hold up in real ocean conditions. The lotion's effectiveness may also vary by jellyfish species.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Dry Tortugas National Park
Key West, Florida, 33041, United States