Swarms of stinging jellyfish became such a severe problem last year that several beaches on Spain's Mediterranean coast had to be closed. According to marine biologists, the problem has been caused by over-fishing of the bell-shaped invertebrates' predators, and climate change.
Under the ministry's jellyfish plan, a commission of leading experts will be set up, who will set out recommendations for killing them off.
Experts say that recently the jellyfish were kept about 20 miles from the coastline by cool fresh water flowing out of rivers. However, warmer temperatures have caused a decline in rainfall, reducing the flow of river water into the sea, and allowing the jellyfish to move closer to the shoreline each year.
Over-fishing has also depleted stocks of small fish that compete with the jellyfish for plankton food.
Under the proposed measures, the ministry will charter fishing boats that will detect and kill off the offending creatures. Warning systems will also be introduced for bathers on the beaches.
Environmentalists have warned that while measures focused on culling the jellyfish may help sustain tourist numbers, they fail to tackle the root of the problem.
Spanish authorities fear that jellyfish could inflict substantial damage to the country's tourist industry, a major contributor to the economy. Up to 55 million people visit Spain every year.
