Saw these in abundance today on beach, and no idea what they are. They hang together in long strings in water, then break up into individual transparent blobs about 6cm long of jelly like substance with a brown ball in them when washed ashore. Ideas?

 

Probably jellyfish

They are sea salps. Not related to jellyfish. 

http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/sea_salps

Like Gulfsailor said; They are Salps.

 

http://www.antarctica.gov.au/about-antarctica/wildlife/animals/salps

Thanks guys, learnt something. Good to know they are harmless, as we wanted to let kids in water but advised not to with these all around as wasn't sure at time.

Good for you, safety first, not like Thai's

Nose Snot from Big Person.

You have all missed the point,,,,, can they be eaten ??   555