Man o' war is actually four species

Researchers have discovered that the Portuguese man o' war, known for its painful sting, actually comprises at least four distinct species. This finding challenges the previous understanding of these widespread marine creatures. Scientists analyzed the genetics of over 150 bluebottles, also known as Portuguese man o' wars, from around the world. They identified significant genetic differences, indicating separate species despite some overlapping geographic ranges and the ability to travel long distances. The study, published in Current Biology, describes four species, including a newly identified one, Physalia minuta. Further research is planned to understand the evolutionary factors behind the species' divergence.