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?

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.

While Velella velella are relatively harmless, there are similar species that can pose a danger. The Portuguese Man o’ War, for instance, is often mistaken