Jelly balls are indeed alive! But they are not plants, as one might initially assume. Instead, they are colonies of simple animals called bryozoans, or sometimes referred to as “moss animals.” These fascinating creatures come together to form gelatinous structures that resemble jelly balls.
Bryozoans are aquatic organisms that can be found in both freshwater and marine environments. They are incredibly small, ranging in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. Despite their small size, bryozoans are highly complex and organized creatures.
The jelly balls that we see are actually colonies of individual bryozoans, known as zooids, which are interconnected and work together for survival. Each zooid is a tiny, filter-feeding animal that lives within a protective structure called a zooidarium. These zooidaria are made up of a gelatinous substance secreted by the bryozoans themselves.
Within the zooidarium, each zooid has a specialized role. Some zooids are responsible for feeding, using hair-like structures called cilia to create water currents and filter out tiny particles of food. Others are responsible for reproduction, while some serve as protective structures for the colony.
The gelatinous nature of the jelly balls provides buoyancy, allowing the bryozoan colony to float in the water. This gives them the ability to drift and potentially colonize new areas. It’s fascinating to think that these seemingly inert jelly balls are actually bustling with life and activity.
I had the opportunity to witness a bryozoan colony firsthand while snorkeling in a freshwater lake. The water was incredibly clear, and I could see these gelatinous blobs suspended in the water column. Upon closer inspection, I noticed tiny creatures moving within the jelly-like substance. It was truly a mesmerizing sight to behold.
Jelly balls are not rocks or plants but are, in fact, colonies of bryozoans. These colonies are made up of interconnected zooids that work together for survival. The gelatinous nature of the jelly balls provides buoyancy, allowing them to float in the water. So next time you come across a jelly ball, remember that it is a living organism, albeit a very unusual one!