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Harmless 'Cursed Gummy Bears' Clean US Waterways

8/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Floating blobs in US waterways, called 'cursed gummy bears,' are harmless bryozoans, Pectinatella magnifica.
These colonies consist of tiny zooids and contribute to freshwater cleaning.
Bryozoans have existed for 480 million years and can endure harsh conditions.
They are typically observed in late summer and early fall; officials recommend leaving them undisturbed.

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Story summary

Floating blobs in US waterways, called 'cursed gummy bears,' are harmless bryozoans, Pectinatella magnifica.
These colonies consist of tiny zooids and contribute to freshwater cleaning.
Bryozoans have existed for 480 million years and can endure harsh conditions.
They are typically observed in late summer and early fall; officials recommend leaving them undisturbed.