THIS IS A VELELLA A free floating hyrdrozoan. It is currently the only species in its genus. Each apparent Velella animal is in fact a hydroid colony, and most are less than about 7 cm long. They are usually deep blue in colour, but their most obvious feature is a small stiff sail that catches the wind and propels them over the surface of the sea. Under certain wind conditions, they may be stranded by the thousand on beaches. Like other Cnidaria, Velella are carnivorous. They catch their prey, generally plankton, by means of tentacles that hang down in the water and bear cnidocysts (also called nematocysts). Though the toxins in their nematocysts are effective against their prey, Velella are harmless to humans, either because their nematocysts are unable to pierce our skin, or perhaps because humans do not react to the toxins encapsulated in their nematocysts. Nevertheless, it is wise to avoid touching ones face or eyes after handling Velella. ~Joe Adamich ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥Invest In Your Health! I Swear You Will Not Regret it! ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ Add Me or Follow Me at Sheila Rusnak ✿ ✻ ♥making a difference -- one pound at a time ♥✻✿ SkinnyFiberWinnipeg REAL People REAL Results at Skinny Fiber Winnipeg Join us for Natural Living ideas at Healthy Hints Winnipeg
Posted on: Sat, 15 Mar 2014 05:23:58 +0000
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