Found thousands of these translucent blue, plastic-looking ovals washed up on the beach today. They have a stiff fin on top and blue jelly underneath. Are they dangerous?

If you've strolled along a beach and come across thousands of translucent blue ovals that resemble plastic debris, you may have stumbled upon one of nature’s fascinating phenomena. These creatures, known for their unique appearance, have sparked curiosity and concern among beachgoers, often causing alarm due to their unfamiliar presence. While their vivid blue hue and unusual shape might resemble marine debris, they are, in fact, living organisms. This article delves into what these creatures are, whether they pose any danger to humans or pets, and why they occasionally appear en masse on our shores. 1. What You Found: Meet the By-The-Wind SailorThe creatures you've encountered are called Velella velella, commonly known as "By-the-Wind Sailors." They are a type of hydrozoan, closely related to jellyfish, and are part of the phylum Cnidaria. Velella velella typically measure around 7 cm in length, with a distinctive triangular sail that helps them navigate across the ocean surface. Their vibrant blue coloration makes them stand out against the sand when they wash ashore. These organisms are colonial, meaning they are composed of a group of specialized polyps that function together as a single entity. Each Velella has a stiff, translucent sail that protrudes from the top, allowing them to catch the wind and drift across ocean currents. Underneath this sail lies a gelatinous body that is home to their feeding and reproductive structures. 2. How To Tell Velella Velella From Other JellyfishVelella velella can be distinguished from other jellyfish by several key characteristics. Unlike the typical umbrella-shaped bell of a jellyfish, Velella have a flat, oval body with a rigid, triangular sail on top. This sail is oriented diagonally, which helps them harness the wind for movement. Their blue color is also a notable feature, ranging from bright cobalt to a more subdued navy. Unlike the notorious Portuguese Man o' War, which Velella are sometimes mistaken for, they lack the long, trailing tentacles that are characteristic of other stinging cnidarians. 3. Are They Dangerous To Touch?Velella velella are generally considered harmless to humans. While they do possess nematocysts, which are small stinging cells used for capturing prey, their sting is not potent enough to penetrate human skin. Most people can handle them without experiencing any adverse effects. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution when handling marine life. Some individuals with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation, so it’s best to gently observe them without direct contact, especially for those with known allergies. 4. Risks For Children, Pets, And Sensitive SkinWhile Velella velella are not dangerous, children and pets may be more sensitive to their stinging cells. It's advisable to keep an eye on curious little ones and pets who might try to pick them up or ingest them. For pets, particularly dogs, ingestion of large quantities might lead to gastrointestinal upset. For those with sensitive skin or known allergies, contact may cause mild irritation or a rash. In such cases, washing the affected area with soap and water usually alleviates any discomfort. 5. What Happens If You Get Stung Anyway?If you do experience a sting from a Velella velella, it is likely to be very mild. Most people report only a slight tingling sensation or irritation. Washing the area with seawater, followed by fresh water, and applying a soothing lotion or cream can help. If any unusual symptoms occur, such as persistent pain, swelling, or an allergic reaction, it’s advisable to seek medical attention. Such reactions are rare, but it's always better to err on the side of caution. 6. Why Thousands Wash Up On Beaches At OnceMass strandings of Velella velella are not uncommon and are usually the result of wind and ocean currents. These organisms drift on the ocean's surface, using their sails to catch the wind. When strong onshore winds occur, they can be blown onto beaches in large numbers. This phenomenon is more common in spring and summer months when weather conditions favor such strandings. While it may seem alarming to see thousands washed up at once, it is a natural event that has been occurring for centuries. 7. What To Do (And Not Do) If You See ThemIf you encounter Velella velella on the beach, it’s best to observe them from a distance. While they are not dangerous, handling them is unnecessary and might disturb local wildlife that feeds on them. Avoid attempting to return them to the ocean, as they are likely already dead, and this could disrupt the natural process. Instead, take the opportunity to learn more about these fascinating creatures and educate others about their unique role in the marine ecosystem. 8. Are They Bad For The Environment Or The Ocean?Velella velella are a natural and important part of the ocean ecosystem. They serve as both predator and prey within their food web. By-the-Wind Sailors feed on plankton, and in turn, are consumed by various marine species, including fish and seabirds. Their strandings, while extensive, do not negatively impact the environment. In fact, they provide a temporary food source for scavengers on the beach. It’s a cycle that contributes to the biodiversity and health of marine ecosystems. 9. The Strange Life Cycle Of These Drifting ColoniesVelella velella have a unique lifecycle that involves both asexual and sexual reproduction. The colonies we see on the ocean surface are the result of asexual budding from a single polyp that eventually gives rise to a full colony. These colonies then release their medusae, which are small jellyfish-like forms, into the water. The medusae are responsible for sexual reproduction, releasing gametes into the ocean to create the next generation of Velella. This dual method of reproduction ensures their survival and adaptability across vast oceanic expanses. 10. When To Worry: Look-Alike Species With Stronger StingsWhile Velella velella are relatively harmless, there are similar species that can pose a danger. The Portuguese Man o' War, for instance, is often mistaken for Velella due to its blue color and floating nature. However, the Man o' War has long, venomous tentacles that can deliver painful and sometimes dangerous stings. It’s important to be able to distinguish between these species. The Man o' War is larger, with a more prominent, bladder-like float and long tentacles. When in doubt, maintain a safe distance from unknown marine organisms. 11. How Climate And Currents Are Changing These Mass StrandingsClimate change may be influencing the frequency and location of Velella velella strandings. Changes in sea temperature, wind patterns, and ocean currents can alter their movements and the likelihood of mass beachings. As the climate continues to change, scientists are studying these patterns to understand the broader impacts on marine ecosystems. Monitoring such events helps researchers gather valuable data on how climate change is affecting oceanic life and can inform conservation strategies aimed at protecting marine biodiversity.

Found thousands of these translucent blue, plastic-looking ovals washed up on the beach today. They have a stiff fin on top and blue jelly underneath. Are they dangerous?

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