According to international press reports, Spain is alarmed by the presence of the blue dragon. This summer, many beaches in Spain were closed due to the presence of the Portuguese man-of-war, an organism similar to a jellyfish but actually a chimera.
This is a very dangerous organism for humans, and now the presence of the blue dragon has been added to its list. This marine organism can also cause serious problems for humans, and it’s crucial not to touch it when found in water: its toxins are highly poisonous.
This species feeds on jellyfish but also on Portuguese man-of-wars and to defend itself it adopts a particular behavior: it stores the toxins of the poisonous animals it eats, which it releases as soon as it is touched or feels threatened.
In recent days, the mayor of Guardamar del Segura (Alicante), José Luis Sáez, announced the closure of the beaches where the two specimens were found, prohibiting swimming and urging swimmers to report any sightings. Swimming was prohibited, but the beaches have now reopened for swimming, while still urging people to exercise extreme caution.
Blue dragon stings can cause nausea, vomiting, skin pain, and allergic reactions. Anyone stung should rinse with sea water and seek immediate medical attention. It is essential not to improvise personal assistance, but to follow procedures only in rare cases. However, stings from this animal can lead to death, so extreme caution is essential.
