Galveston, Texas – Spending time on the beach along the Gulf is always a fun experience, whether it’s playing in the sand, battling the waves, or discovering sea creatures. However, not all creatures you might encounter on the beach are as harmless as they seem. One such creature, the Blue Button, is an interesting but potentially dangerous animal you should know about.
The Blue Button Warning
While it might resemble a jellyfish, the Blue Button is not one, though it belongs to a similar family of creatures. Officially known as Porpita porpita, it is actually a colony of tiny animals that come together to form a disk-shaped organism that floats on the water’s surface. Typically, you’ll see it with blue or green edges, and a network of tentacles.
Although it may look harmless, the Blue Button does have tentacles that can sting, much like a jellyfish. The sting from a Blue Button won’t cause intense pain, but it can cause mild irritation. The sting is enough to make you uncomfortable, but not life-threatening.
What to Do If You See One on the Shore
These Blue Buttons often get blown ashore by the sea breeze. If you happen to spot one, it’s best to avoid touching it or stepping on it. It can be tempting to admire their beauty, but stepping on or handling one could result in a mild sting.
If you’re at the beach and see one, it’s a good idea to walk around it and let others know so they can avoid it as well. A quick heads-up can save someone from an irritating encounter.
