Pyrosomes

Certain ocean currents can bring these strange creatures to the Pacific Northwest.

Commonly referred to as sea pickles, Pyrosomes are actually colonies of multi-celled animals called zooids. These colonies range in size depending on their particular species, with some being up to 30 feet long! They’re usually found in the tropics, but certain conditions can bring them as far north as the Gulf of Alaska. The species that commonly washes ashore along our coastline is called Pyrosoma atlanticum, and they reach a maximum of 2 feet in length. Their scientific name roughly translates to “fire body,” which is appropriate because they’re known to exhibit bioluminescence. Pyrosomes are filter feeders, and use cilia to draw plankton into their mucus filters for consumption. Their role in the food-web isn’t well researched, but bony fish, dolphins, and whales have been observed to eat them. They’re understood to be harmless, but it’s still probably a good idea to restrain your pets from eating them.