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Physalia physalis
Very dangerous

Physalia physalis

Siphonophore (Physaliidae)

Technically not a jellyfish, but a siphonophore: a colony of specialized organisms (clones) living together. Warning: its venom remains highly active even several days after stranding on dry sand.

Sting symptoms

Very dangerous. Searing pain, whip marks, risk of anaphylactic shock, malaise, or heart problems.

Identification

It doesn't swim. You spot its asymmetrical gas-filled float (the "pneumatophore"), pink, blue, or purplish in color, topped with a crest. Very long, deadly blue tentacles trail beneath the surface.
Size
Float: 10 to 30 cm / Tentacles: up to 30 meters!
Habitat
Floats on the ocean surface at the mercy of the winds.
Scientific family

Siphonophore (Physaliidae)

Community photos

Photos submitted and verified by Meduseo users. (293)

Physalia physalis
17/09/2026 Zarautz
Physalia physalis
17/09/2026 Santander
Physalia physalis
17/09/2026 San Vicente de la Barquera
Physalia physalis
15/09/2026 Suances
Physalia physalis
14/09/2026 Getaria
Physalia physalis
14/09/2026 Zarautz
Physalia physalis
13/09/2026 Colunga
Physalia physalis
13/09/2026 Goz贸n
Physalia physalis
12/09/2026 Vald谩liga
Physalia physalis
12/09/2026 Comillas
Physalia physalis
11/09/2026 Gij贸n
Physalia physalis
10/09/2026 Santander
Physalia physalis
10/09/2026 Laredo
Physalia physalis
09/09/2026 Pi茅lagos
Physalia physalis
08/09/2026 Santander
Physalia physalis
07/09/2026 Colunga
Physalia physalis
07/09/2026 Santo帽a
Physalia physalis
05/09/2026 Llanes
Physalia physalis
05/09/2026 Llanes
Physalia physalis
05/09/2026 Gij贸n
Physalia physalis
05/09/2026 Vald谩liga
Physalia physalis
04/09/2026 Ibarrangelu
Physalia physalis
04/09/2026 Santander
Physalia physalis
04/09/2026 Llanes
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What to do if stung?

Check our first aid guide to know how to react.

View first aid guide
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