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?

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.

Velella 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