Physalia Utriculus
Bluebottle jellyfish, also known as the "man-o-war," are infamous for their painful stings. Unlike many other jellyfish, a bluebottle is not a single organism but a colony of specialized individuals working
| Bluebottle Jellyfish | |
 | |
| Physalia Utriculus | |
| Classification | |
| Species | Physalia utriculus |
| Taxonomy authority | |
| Scientific Authority | Lamarck, 1801 |
together. The floating part, or "float," serves as the colony's buoyancy aid, while the long tentacles handle feeding, defense, and reproduction.
These jellyfish are commonly found along Australia's coastline, especially during the summer months when strong onshore winds bring them onto beaches. Their float allows them to drift with the wind, though they are vulnerable if stranded ashore. Without water, colonies dry out and perish.
Bluebottles primarily prey on plankton and small fish, which are immobilized by their tentacles equipped with venomous stinging cells. The float itself is usually small, measuring up to 7 cm across, but their tentacles can extend several meters. Detached tentacles can still sting, even when separated from the main body, posing a risk to beachgoers. These stinging cells inject venom into prey or any other contact, causing significant discomfort.[1]
References
- ''Dangerous Creatures of Australia'', by Martyn Robinson, Green Guide, New Holland Publishers (Australia) Pty Ltd, 2002, p. 90.
