The striking Portuguese Man-of-War on the coast of Gansbaai, South Africa (00016666)

The dangerous Portuguese Man-of-War with its stinging tentacles

Description: The Portuguese Man-of-War, also known as the Blue bottle, is a fascinating yet extremely dangerous marine creature. Its striking blueish gas bladder makes it unmistakable. With tentacles reaching up to 10 m in length filled with stinging capsules, it is a menacing presence in the waters off South Africa. Its venom can lead to respiratory arrest and cardiac failure. Close contact with its tentacles requires immediate medical attention. Learn more about this colonial organism and its life-threatening characteristics.

Location: Western Cape, Kueste Gansbaai, South Africa

Date of Capture: 17.08.2005