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)
17/09/2026
Zarautz
17/09/2026
Santander
17/09/2026
San Vicente de la Barquera
15/09/2026
Suances
14/09/2026
Getaria
14/09/2026
Zarautz
13/09/2026
Colunga
13/09/2026
Gozón
12/09/2026
Valdáliga
12/09/2026
Comillas
11/09/2026
Gijón
10/09/2026
Santander
10/09/2026
Laredo
09/09/2026
Piélagos
08/09/2026
Santander
07/09/2026
Colunga
07/09/2026
Santoña
05/09/2026
Llanes
05/09/2026
Llanes
05/09/2026
Gijón
05/09/2026
Valdáliga
04/09/2026
Ibarrangelu
04/09/2026
Santander
04/09/2026
Llanes
03/09/2026
Santander
03/09/2026
Santoña
03/09/2026
Hendaye
02/09/2026
Valdáliga
02/09/2026
Valdáliga
02/09/2026
Llanes
01/09/2026
Suances
01/09/2026
Santander
01/09/2026
Santander
01/09/2026
Santander
31/08/2026
Labenne
31/08/2026
Alfoz de Lloredo