By-the-wind Sailor
Velella Velella
Today I share what is a very unique jellyfish I discovered unfortunately run aground on the Texas coast. It is very unique, unlike any others. It lives totally afloat on the surface of the water. Like a raft cast out adrift on the mighty ocean, it is completely at the whim of the sea and the wind to take it on it's journeys.
On it's top is a sail that catches the wind. It would act like a tall ship's sail, which can only sail downwind or slightly cross wind. It has no other means of travel other than wind and currents. It is curious that the sail is almost always left handed, going from upper left to lower right along the body. Also it is predominately found in the northern hemisphere. Nothing is by accident in nature. Perhaps someday we will realize the genius of such a design and how that serves it perfectly in it's environment. We may learn how that directs it's course on a beautiful route looping the seasons and ocean winds and currents. But for now we can only wonder and speculate.
As I look at them I have to marvel at their beauty. They don't look real. Like small floating space stations. Complex beyond belief yet a very simple life.
What must a life be like roaming the oceans like this. Simply enjoying life and where we are taken. At the mercy of a higher hand to lead. Sharing our day with others like us, simply floating in groups on the mighty boundless sea.
They are called Velella, Velella Velella, Sea Raft, Purple Sail, Little Sail, or By-the-wind Sailors.
I'll just call them Beautiful.