Residents in Oklahoma discovered mysterious jelly-like sacs hanging from tree roots at McGee Creek Reservoir, sparking concerns of alien origins. However, scientists quickly reassured the public, explaining that these sacs are actually colonies of bryozoans, ancient creatures that have been around for over 470 million years.
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) shared, “These are Bryozoans, and they’ll likely show up in large numbers this summer. Don’t be alarmed; these microorganisms are native and are of no danger to you or wildlife. In fact, they are an indicator of good environmental quality and clear water!”
Bryozoans, made up of tiny zooids, filter water for food, contributing to a cleaner lake environment. Each colony can reproduce rapidly through self-cloning, making them a common sight in suitable environments.
Despite their strange appearance, these organisms are beneficial to the ecosystem, helping maintain the health of the lake by consuming phytoplankton and bacteria.
While the sight may be unusual, officials emphasize that bryozoans are a natural part of the environment and a sign of a healthy, thriving lake.