Bryozoans are among the most abundant freshwater invertebrates that are found attached to submerged surfaces. Like the corals, these sessile creatures were thought to be plants until the mid-1700s. Pectinatella magnifica , one species belonging to this class, is commonly found in freshwater lakes and rivers in North America. The surface appears divided into rosettes, each containing 12-18 zooids.
Colonies form on submerged logs, twigs, and even wooden docks.
Brought to the surface, jelly blobs exude a pungent aroma that may be linked to chemicals released by the organisms to inhibit fish predation or reduce competition for growing space. Few other organisms are willing to grow next to the magnificent jelly blob.