Natural History
Giant siphonophores, like all siphonophores, are a collection of highly specialized working parts. Some parts catch prey, others digest food, some parts reproduce and others direct the action by swimming. This siphonophore is bioluminescent—it creates its own light. When it bumps against something, its stem glows with a bright blue light.
Conservation
Anything that finds its way into the ocean—whether it's tossed away as trash or washed off a beach or boat—may eventually make its way to the deep sea. It's important to realize that the deep sea is not so far away that it's beyond the reach of human activities. Living creatures in the deep are affected by what we do at the surface.
Cool Facts
This siphonophore can grow to lengths of 130 feet (40 m), longer than the blue whale, which is usually considered Earth's largest animal. But the siphonphore's body is not much bigger around than a broomstick.
