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?

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.

Climate change may be influencing the frequency and location of Velella velella strandings. Changes in sea temperature,