Home > Invertebrates > Hydroids > Porpita pacifica

Family Porpitidae

CIRCUMTROPICAL / HAWAII

 Porpita pacifica

Waimanalo Beach, Oahu

 

Kaneohe Sandbar, Oahu

BLUE BUTTON

Inhabits the surface of the open ocean and occasionally washes ashore during storms.  Delicate tentacles are sticky and extend from chambers in the gas-filled disc (tentacles usually damaged in the surf).  Reportedly delivers a painful sting.  Large individuals will attain a diameter of 1.5 inches with tentacles extended.  Worldwide in warm seas.