The Velella velella can grow up to a couple of inches in length and are fascinating for their migratory patterns. These hydrozoans can travel long distances, with their small sail helping them to catch the wind and drift across the ocean. Although they are often mistaken for jellyfish, Velella are unique in their appearance and behavior. While alive, their vibrant blue hues and unusual sail structure make them a captivating sight for marine enthusiasts and beachgoers alike. As a species that relies on favorable weather conditions to survive and thrive, the Velella velella serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our planet's ecosystems.
NPR reported that California beachgoers have reported seeing thousands of the Velella velella along the shoreline recently, though they typically live far offshore.
• And their sails can explain it! They rely completely on the wind and ocean currents to move around, and when the conditions are just right, like with recent storms, they can get pushed up onto shore.
• They also lose that beautiful blue hue once they leave the embrace of ocean waters and die onshore, typically becoming grayish or transparent. And with no exoskeleton to keep their shape propped up, they shrivel up to resemble plastic.
• Their top predators include gloriously hued sea slugs and a special breed of predatory snail.
Here’s a photo of the little buggers:
Meet Vellela vellela, or By-the-wind-sailor!
— CAStateParksOC (@CAStateParksOC) April 10, 2023
These have been washing ashore #CrystalCove lately.
They are related to #seajellies but are not #jellyfish themselves. They are #hydroids w/ stinging #tentacles they use to paralyze #plankton for food. Notice their “sails” up top. pic.twitter.com/cO0HftuNxr
And this is an interesting video about the jelly fish:
So, if you’re planning to be at the beach in California, look down and watch where you step!
