Californian Beach Washouts Reveal Mysterious Blue Creatures: Velella velella or By-the-Wind Sailors Explained by Nate Jaros, Aquarium Scientist

Renowned marine biologist Nate Jaros from the Aquarium of the Pacific has explained why hoards of small blue creatures have been washing ashore on California’s beaches in recent times. These organisms, known as Velella velella or By-the-Wind Sailors, are not poisonous jellyfish but hydroid polyps related to them. While they live in the open ocean, strong winds push these creatures onto shore during spring and early summer months when warmer water temperatures in the northern California current increase their “washup” frequency. These sailor-like organisms use blue stinging tentacles to capture prey such as plankton or fish eggs but have few known predators other than nudibranchs and purple sea snails. They are not a threat to humans, although contact with the skin after handling them may cause slight irritation in some cases due to their toxicity levels being lower compared to jellyfish. The Point Reyes National Seashore advises people against touching these organisms’ tentacles when they come across fresh wash-ups on shore as it can lead to mild discomfort and sensations similar to stings caused by common Portuguese Man O’ War, another open ocean relative of By-the Wind Sailors. If encountered after being stranded for a while, the sailor creatures appear crinkly and dry like cellophane ovals rather than their fresh blue coloring when alive in water. The seashore’s officials have recommended shouting “Velella velellas!” upon discovering these organisms on shore as an alternative to jumping up and down repeatedly, which is a common practice among beachgoers who encounter them for the first time due to their unique appearance and sail-like structure reminiscent of boats caught in strong winds.