Fascinating details about the dangerous Physalia utriculus - The Portuguese Man o' War (00016674)

Description: The Portuguese Man o' War (Physalia utriculus) is a fascinating yet extremely dangerous marine creature. With its bluish-purple and transparent appearance, it captivates viewers worldwide. Each Portuguese Man o' War is composed of a colony of polyps living in perfect symbiosis. Its distinctive gas bladder acts as a sail, allowing them to drift in the open ocean. The tentacles of this creature can grow up to 10 meters long and are equipped with thousands of nematocysts that secrete a highly potent venom. Coming into contact with these tentacles can be life-threatening for humans and requires immediate medical attention.

Location: Western Cape, Küste Gansbaai, South Africa

Date of Capture: 17.08.2005