Dangerous Beauty: The Portuguese Man-of-War and its Perfect Predatory Apparatus off the Coast of Gansbaai, Western Cape, South Africa (00016676)

Description: The Portuguese Man-of-War, also known as Blue Bottle or Physalia utriculus, is a fascinating yet extremely dangerous marine creature. This colonial organism consists of a variety of polyps, each with a specific role to play. Its striking blueish gas bladder serves as a warning signal to potential prey. The tentacles of Physalia utriculus, reaching up to 10 meters in length, are equipped with up to 1000 cnidocytes per centimeter and can have devastating effects on anyone they come in contact with. The venom leads to muscle spasms, respiratory failure, and ultimately, death. Immediate medical attention is crucial in case of a Portuguese Man-of-War sting.

Location: Western Cape, Kueste Gansbaai, South Africa

Date of Capture: 17.08.2005