Sea lice are popping up all over Gulf Coast beaches. While many sightings are along the panhandle, biologists say they expect to start seeing more move south along the coastline.
Sea lice are microscopic and impossible to spot in the water. They aren't the kind of lice you may be thinking of.
Sea lice are actually jellyfish larvae and while they are tiny, they still have the same stinging cells as a full grown jellyfish, and they'll leave a mark.
The rash they cause is called sunbather's eruption. Often time the sea lice will get caught beneath a swimmer's bathing suit. Because they sting like jellyfish, sunbathers eruption can be treated just like a jellyfish sting.
While they can be found throughout the year, sea lice are most active from the months of April through August.
To learn more about sea lice, click HERE.
