Ultra-rare blue 'jellyfish' turns up on New Jersey beach

Beachgoers in New Jersey made an unusual discovery this week, spotting a rare jellyfish-like organism along the shore.

Suzanne Willis Schenker posted photos of her sighting in Beach Haven to New Jersey Jellyspotters Facebook group.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the blue button -- formally known as Porpita porita -- is actually a relative of the jellyfish. The organism has a small disc-like body and floats freely in the water column, measuring just one inch in diameter.

Marine biologist and jellyfish expert Paul Bologna of Montclair State University told NJ Advance Media he has never seen one in New Jersey.

"It's the first time I've ever seen one in New Jersey," Bologna said "I've seen them in Florida but never this area. They are beautiful and stunning."

Other group members have since posted photos of their own sightings in Brigantine Beach.