Captivating shot of a menacing blue bottle off the coast of Gansbaai (00016710)
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Description: The blue bottle (Physalia utriculus) is a dangerous species of Portuguese man-of-war drifting in the waters off the coast of Gansbaai. This fascinating creature consists of a colony of polyps working together to maintain the gas bladder that keeps it afloat at the water's surface. The tentacles of the blue bottle are extremely dangerous, reaching up to 10 meters in length. With up to 1000 nematocysts per square centimeter, they pose a serious threat to swimmers. Direct contact with the tentacles can result in severe injuries requiring immediate medical attention. This stock photography captures the menace and grace of this marine creature in its natural habitat off the coast of Gansbaai.
Location: Western Cape, Küste Gansbaai, South Africa
Date of Capture: 14.08.2005