What is a Portuguese man-of-war called?

The Portuguese man o’ war, (Physalia physalis) is often called a jellyfish, but is actually a species of siphonophore, a group of animals that are closely related to jellyfish. While the man o’ war’s sting is rarely deadly to people, it packs a painful punch and causes welts on exposed skin.

What do you do if you get stung by a Portuguese man-of-war?

If you are stung, rinse the area with saltwater. Apply concentrated vinegar solution if available. This will inactivate the stingers and prevent the release of more toxin. Then with a gloved hand try to remove the tentacles.

Why is the Portuguese man-of-war not a jellyfish?

The Portuguese man o’ war is not a jellyfish, but rather a siphonophore, which is a colony of specialized animals called zooids that work together as one. 2. The Portuguese man o’ war doesn’t swim. Instead, it uses wind and ocean currents to propel it forward.

What’s the plural of Portuguese man of war?

Both Portuguese man-of-war and Portuguese man o’ war are standard. The o’ simply indicating the omission of the “f” in imitation of how it is more often pronounced by sailors–in the same way that “forecastle” is often written as fo’c’sle. The plural should definitely be Portuguese men-of-war.

What kind of Sting does Portuguese Man o War have?

Its long tentacles deliver a painful sting, which is venomous and powerful enough to kill fish and even humans.

Is the Portuguese Man o War a jellyfish?

The Portuguese man o’ war, ( Physalia physalis) is often called a jellyfish, but is actually a species of siphonophore, a group of animals that are closely related to jellyfish. A siphonophore is unusual in that it is comprised of a colony…

What kind of float is a Portuguese Man o War?

The Portuguese man o’ war is recognized by its balloon-like float, which may be blue, violet, or pink and rises up to six inches above the water line. Image credit: Elizabeth Condon, National Science Foundation