Common name: By-The-Wind Sailor.
Scientific name: Velella velella (Linnaeus, 1758)
Family: Velellidae
Distribution and Habitat: Usually it inhabits the oceanic warm and temperate waters. It travels at the surface with the help of a floating structure that works as a kind of sail; movement depends on the strength of the wind.
Description: The body is composed of a chitinous material and it has a gelatinous aspect. The sail mechanism and the surrounding tissues have a very attractive bluish pigment. The float has a series of sealed air chambers that provide flotation and stability. The total length is less than 6 cm.
Conservation statute and Threats: Not evaluated.
Observations: Although it is not a danger to human beings, some caution and avoiding contact are recommended.