In March 2024, boaters at McGee Creek Reservoir in Atoka County, Oklahoma, were startled by strange jelly-like blobs clinging

to submerged tree limbs. While they looked like alien growths, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation

(ODWC) confirmed they were bryozoans—colonial organisms also called moss animals.

Bryozoans are made up of tiny individuals known as zooids that live together inside a gelatinous mass. Underwater,

the colonies feel soft, but when dry, their chitin-based structure hardens. In good conditions, they can reproduce quickly and form large clusters.

Though their appearance is unsettling, bryozoans are completely harmless. In fact, they’re beneficial to lakes and rivers.

These creatures filter water, removing bacteria and fine particles, which improves clarity. They also provide food for fish,

snails, and mussels. Because they thrive only in clean water, their presence signals a healthy, balanced ecosystem.

Far from being newcomers, bryozoans are ancient survivors. Fossil evidence shows they have existed

for roughly 470 million years, making them one of Earth’s oldest living groups.

So while they may look like alien organisms straight out of science fiction, bryozoans are actually

a natural wonder—quietly maintaining water quality and reminding us of the resilience of life.