In fact, bryozoans are a positive indicator. “They signal clean, healthy water,” officials explained. “They feed by filtering microscopic particles, including algae and bacteria, which helps maintain the ecosystem.” While more common than many realize, sightings often surprise swimmers and boaters, especially when colonies appear seemingly overnight. “They look so otherworldly,” one lake visitor remarked. “At first glance, I thought it was some alien creature or egg sac!”

Still, wildlife departments nationwide advise the public not to disturb these colonies. They pose no threat to humans and are part of a balanced aquatic habitat. Officials also noted that bryozoans usually vanish during colder months and return when temperatures rise. So, while they might resemble something from a sci-fi movie, the next time you spot a blob in your local lake, rest easy: it’s not from another planet—just nature’s strange and fascinating work.