Atlantic invaded by a venomous deadly creature
The ocean is home to numerous marine animals. Swimming in it can be risky. Take a quick look at your feet before you decide to take a dip in its waters.
The physalia, a sea creature that looks like a jellyfish, sparked curiosity among Floridians last spring. Frequently seen on the Atlantic coast, it had never reached Florida before.
More recently, it has caused concern in Portugal and in northeastern Spain, in Catalonia. Also nicknamed the “sea bladder” or the “Portuguese galley,” the physalia is a marine species that mainly inhabits tropical and subtropical waters. However, prevailing winds can carry it, equipped with its 20-meter-long tentacles and its deadly venom (for fish), towards the European coasts.
For humans, it represents a danger because of its stinging tentacles. Even when the physalia dies, its tentacles remain “active”. If you find one washed up on the beach, do not go near it.
(MH with AsD - Source: Demotivateur - Illustration: Unsplash)