Southern California beaches have recently been inundated with thousands of Velella velellas, also known as by-the-wind sailors. These creatures are often mistaken for jellyfish due to their gelatinous appearance, but they are actually a type of hydrozoan. The blue blobs have been spotted on beaches from San Diego to Marin County, with pictures showing them covering the sand in some areas. Point Reyes National Seashore in the Bay Area addressed the phenomenon on social media, explaining that these creatures use their translucent, triangular sails to float on the ocean’s surface and are at the mercy of prevailing winds.
Unlike jellyfish, by-the-wind sailors cannot actively swim against ocean currents and rely on the wind to carry them. Unfortunately, if the wind is too strong in the wrong direction, they may get blown ashore and die. After a few days on land, the bodies of Velella velellas will decompose, leaving only their cellophane-like sails and floats behind. While on shore, they are vulnerable to predators, but some may be pulled back into the ocean by the tide before perishing. Despite their jellyfish-like appearance, these creatures are not harmful to humans, as their stingers are rarely harmful.
Researchers believe that the recent influx of by-the-wind sailors on California shores is related to warmer currents in the waters off the coast, which can increase wind speeds. Oceanographer Anya Stajner compared the creatures to “San Diegans,” as they enjoy spending time in the sun and going wherever the breeze takes them. Due to their unique lifestyle at the air and water interface, they often end up on shores when strong breezes blow them off course. While encountering these creatures may be rare and exciting, experts recommend leaving them undisturbed to allow them to decompose naturally.
The Velella velellas commonly feed on plankton, which they catch with their stinging tentacles. Despite their jellyfish-like appearance, these hydrozoans are relatively safe for beachgoers to pick up and examine. Their presence on shorelines is a natural occurrence, and they play a vital role in the marine ecosystem. As the by-the-wind sailors decompose on beaches, their remains contribute to the nutrient cycle and support various organisms in the coastal environment. While their strandings may seem alarming to beachgoers, they are a part of the natural cycle of life in the ocean and serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems.
The sight of thousands of Velella velellas covering California beaches may be a rare occurrence, but it serves as a reminder of the diverse marine life that inhabits the waters off the coast. These fleeting creatures, who travel with the wind and currents, highlight the dynamic nature of the ocean environment. While their presence may capture the attention of curious onlookers, it is essential to respect their role in the ecosystem and allow them to decompose naturally on the beach. As researchers continue to study the impact of warmer waters on marine life, sightings of by-the-wind sailors may become more common, offering a unique glimpse into the fascinating world of oceanic creatures.
