Surprising images have been circulating since Sunday, April 13, 2025, on social media, showing a proliferation of atypical marine creatures off the coast of El Skala beach in Nabeul. The photos and videos shared by passersby reveal the presence of small bluish organisms, with shapes that resemble both jellyfish and shellfish, and whose appearance is reminiscent of butterflies with translucent wings tinged with a gradient of blue.
According to Yassine Ramzi Essghir, a marine environmental specialist, these organisms belong to the broader family of non-stinging jellyfish. This species, scientifically named Velella velella, is commonly known as « by-the-wind sailor, » « sea butterfly, » or « sailing marine creature. »
« The appearance of Velella is a natural phenomenon signaling the arrival of spring, both on land and at sea. Its presence is also a positive indicator of marine biological productivity, as this species plays a key role in the fish food chain, » explains the specialist in a statement given to Mosaïque Fm.
However, an alert has also been issued regarding the detection of another, much more dangerous marine organism: Physalia physalis, known as the Portuguese man o’ war or blue jellyfish. This species, three times larger than Velella, can measure up to 15 cm and closely resembles a floating plastic bag. Unlike Velella, Physalia is extremely venomous and can cause severe burns upon contact.
Yassine Essghir urges swimmers and beachgoers to exercise extreme caution. « It is imperative to avoid any contact with this jellyfish, even if it appears to be inert on the sand. Its sting is particularly painful and can lead to complications, » he warns.
Local authorities are being called to monitor the area and inform sea users in order to prevent any incidents.4o mini
Source: La presse
