Glaucus atlanticus in Gulf of Mexico?

April 7, 2009
From: Kenneth Hattersley

Concerning message #18991:

Bill,
I am somewhat concerned ... I tend to go to the beach quite frequently through the summer months. I live right off the Gulf of Mexico in Corpus Christi, Texas and visit the beach on a semi-daily basis. I see a lot of the hydrozoans referred to as the Portuguese man of war and am wondering does Glaucus atlanticus tends to show up in the Gulf of Mexico as well? As you probably know, I am wondering this out of concern for myself and little brothers and sisters as I am only 17. These little creatures though amazing as they are, are quite frightening considering their devastating sting.

Thanks,
Kenneth Hattersley
High School Student

little_kenny_h@yahoo.com

Hattersley, K.P., 2009 (Apr 7) Glaucus atlanticus in Gulf of Mexico?. [Message in] Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Available from http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/22410

Dear Kenny,

Unfortunately Glaucus is found in the Gulf of Mexico. Since Glaucus feeds primarily on Physalia (Portuguese man of war) I guess when you see Physalia around then you should be aware that Glaucus is also likely to be present. Here in Australia the 'Portuguese man of war' is known as a 'blue-bottle' and blue-bottle stings are part of every kid's summer experience - not the best experience but unless you suffer strong allergic reactions not one to make you afraid to go to the beach. I guess what I am saying is that if after 17 years you have learnt to live with and avoid the Portuguese man of war, then you should consider Glaucus to be part of the 'Portuguese man of war threat'.

Best wishes,
Bill Rudman

Rudman, W.B., 2009 (Apr 7). Comment on Glaucus atlanticus in Gulf of Mexico? by Kenneth Hattersley. [Message in] Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Available from http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/22410

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