A strange jelly-like mass recently found in an Oklahoma lake caused a stir, with some locals joking it looked like an alien egg pod. Photos of the blob quickly went viral, sparking talk of extraterrestrial life. But wildlife officials stepped in to calm fears, explaining that the object is actually a harmless organism known as a bryozoan—a colony of tiny aquatic animals dating back millions of years.
Though their appearance can be unsettling, bryozoans are completely safe. They naturally attach to docks, rocks, and submerged trees in freshwater lakes and rivers, forming large, gelatinous clumps. These colonies grow by cloning and often look like something from science fiction, which is why they’re easily misunderstood.
Experts say their presence is actually a good sign. Bryozoans help filter the water by removing algae and bacteria, contributing to a healthy aquatic environment. “They’re a positive indicator of clean water,” officials said, noting that their sudden appearance often catches swimmers and boaters off guard.
Authorities advise the public not to disturb these blobs. While they may look odd, bryozoans are natural, non-threatening, and will disappear in colder months. So if you spot one during your next lake trip, there’s no need to panic—it’s just nature doing its job in a very unusual way.