What are the clear, blue things on San Diego beaches? [Video]

SAN DIEGO — Little, transparent, blue-ish sea creatures are washing up on the shore at beaches in San Diego County. San Diego residents are taking to social media to ask the question: what are they? 

Velella velella

The tiny blobs you might have seen during your walk on the beach are a species known as Velella velella. The creatures are also known as “by-the-wind sailors.” According to UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the creatures float on the ocean surface and are moved across the water by the wind.

Are they jellyfish?

They may look like jellyfish, but they aren’t in the same group as jellies. According to  Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Velella velella are part of a different group called hydrozoans. 

Do they sting?

Velella velella have tentacles that can sting. But Scripps says it is usually harmless to humans.

When do they usually appear on the …