Dangerous and Beautiful: The Blue Bottle in All Its Glory (00016699)
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Description: The Blue Bottle (Physalia utriculus) is a fascinating creature belonging to the genus of Portuguese man o' war. Each Blue Bottle is a colony of polyps with different functions. The striking blueish gas-filled bladder serves as a warning sign, as its tentacles, which can reach up to 10 meters in Physalia utriculus (up to 50 meters in Physalia physalis), are extremely dangerous. With up to 1000 nematocysts per square centimeter, they are highly effective. The tentacles move rhythmically to transport prey to the mouth opening. The venom of the Blue Bottle causes muscle contractions, respiratory failure, and cardiac arrest. An encounter with these creatures can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
Location: Western Cape, Küste Gansbaai, South Africa
Date of Capture: 14.08.2005