boaters at McGee Creek Reservoir, located in Atoka County, Oklahoma, noticed unusual jelly-like masses hanging from submerged tree limbs beneath the water’s surface. At first glance, these strange formations looked eerie and almost alien, resembling something out of a science fiction movie. However, upon closer examination and investigation, it was revealed that these mysterious blobs were actually a natural and common part of a healthy aquatic ecosystem.
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) provided clarification about what these gelatinous masses really are. They explained that these formations are colonies of bryozoans, also known as moss animals. Bryozoans are tiny aquatic animals that live together in colonies made up of numerous small individuals called zooids. Each zooid is a small, filter-feeding organism, and together they form large, visible clusters. The gelatinous and somewhat translucent appearance of these colonies comes from their protective outer covering, which is made of chitin.
Underwater, this shell feels soft and somewhat squishy to the touch, but when exposed to air and dried, it hardens and becomes brittle. Bryozoans are capable of rapid reproduction and growth, especially when water conditions are ideal, allowing these colonies to expand quickly and cover submerged surfaces like tree branches, rocks, or aquatic plants. Although their unusual shapes and textures might make them appear alien or unsettling to some, bryozoans are entirely harmless to humans and other wildlife. In fact, they play an important ecological role in freshwater environments.
One of the key benefits bryozoans provide is their ability to filter water. They feed by filtering out bacteria, tiny particles, and organic matter from the water, which helps improve water clarity and overall quality. This natural filtration process contributes to maintaining a clean and balanced ecosystem. Moreover, bryozoans serve as a vital food source for various aquatic animals, including fish, snails, and mussels, supporting the local food web.
Interestingly, bryozoans are indicators of healthy and clean water because they tend to thrive only in environments with good water quality. Therefore, the presence of bryozoan colonies in McGee Creek Reservoir is a positive sign that the lake’s ecosystem is functioning well and maintaining a healthy balance.
From a historical perspective, bryozoans are fascinating creatures due to their longevity on Earth. Fossil evidence shows that bryozoans have existed for approximately 470 million years, making them some of the oldest living multicellular organisms still present in today’s aquatic habitats. Their long evolutionary history speaks to their adaptability and resilience in a wide range of environmental conditions.
So, the next time you see these strange, jelly-like formations hanging from underwater trees or rocks, remember that they are not strange alien invaders, but rather a remarkable and beneficial part of nature’s aquatic world. Bryozoans contribute to the health of freshwater ecosystems and have been quietly thriving beneath the water’s surface for millions of years.
Emmerdale Star Natalie J. Robb on Moira and Cain’s Future – and the Scene That Still Makes Her Blush
Natalie J. Robb, best known for playing Moira Dingle in Emmerdale, has reflected on her long-running role and her on-screen marriage with Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) – including one scene that still embarrasses her today.
Over the years, viewers have seen Moira’s life unfold in dramatic ways: from her marriage to Cain and raising children, to heartbreaking losses, betrayals, and reconciliations. Through it all, Moira and Cain remain one of the show’s most enduring couples.
From Barton to Dingle
Moira’s journey in Emmerdale has been filled with emotional highs and devastating lows. When she first arrived, she was married to John Barton and raising her children on the Barton farm. But after John’s tragic death, Moira’s life changed forever when she began a fiery romance with Cain Dingle.
Their relationship has survived nearly every obstacle imaginable – infidelity, heartbreak, betrayal, and loss – yet the pair continue to stand by one another, stronger than ever.
The Scene She Can’t Bear to Rewatch
In a candid YouTube interview with Katie Jarvis, Natalie admitted there’s one racy scene with Jeff Hordley that still makes her cringe.
“Somebody sent me a link, and I thought, ‘Oh, I’ll just watch it back.’ And I honestly couldn’t do it. I cringed the whole way through,” she confessed.
Although Jeff reassured her that intimate on-screen moments always look different to viewers, Natalie says it’s still hard to watch herself in those scenes. “When you’re doing it, you don’t think about it – but when it’s replayed, you just think, ‘Oh no!’” she laughed.
Life With Cain – and What’s Ahead
Despite the rollercoaster ride, Natalie is proud of how Moira and Cain’s relationship has endured.
“I love that we’ve been together so long,” she said. “It’s not easy – especially in soapland – but it makes the storylines even richer. Cain and Moira’s journey has been a rollercoaster, but that’s what keeps people invested.”
Dream Storylines and Future Hopes
Looking forward, Natalie says she’d love to see Moira and Cain’s bond tested in new ways, while also delving deeper into Moira’s individual struggles and dreams.
“There’s still so much to explore with Moira,” she revealed. “Her family, her farm, her future – there are endless possibilities.”
A Legacy Role
Now, after more than a decade in the role, Natalie feels grateful to have made Moira one of Emmerdale’s most iconic characters.
“It’s a privilege,” she said. “Moira’s been through so much, and I love that fans have been on that journey with her. She’s flawed, but she’s real – and I think that’s why people relate to her.”