Blue Bottle or
Portuguese Man-o-war
(Physalia sp.)

Each blue bottle consists of a number of individual animals which have developed specific roles. One is a gas-filled float (1-13cm) which sails across the ocean at 45°.

Others are involved in reproduction and develop a stinging apparatus.

The main tentacle, which may measure 10m, is the part responsible for painful stings. These creatures pose a threat to swimmers when present in large numbers, and their presence may cause beaches to be closed. Death from Blue Bottles in Australia is unknown. Blue Bottles feed upon shrimps and prawns.

back to index ...