ANOTHER Spanish beach has been forced to shut after it was invaded by a swarm of killer “blue dragons”
A toxic sea slug was observed in Lanzarote shortly after tourists were prohibited from visiting Spain’s Costa Blanca due to this venomous creature.
Lifeguards evacuated La Cantería beach in Órzolon and warned holidaymakers to stay clear of the waters until further notice.
Named Glaucus atlanticus, this perilous sea animal has earned the title “the most beautiful killer in the ocean” thanks to its shimmering blue appearance and potent, lethal sting.
Human contact with the creature can prove lethal with symptoms ranging from severe pain, skin irritation, vomiting and fever.
It has a sting as powerful as the much larger Portuguese man o’ war – and preys on them too.
The creatures absorb their prey’s venom – concentrating it at the end of their finger-like extremities to ward off attackers.
Although they look like mini Pokemon, the beasts can even turn cannibalistic – sometimes eating each other in captivity.
The Lanzarote beach closure comes just days after tourists were banned from a long stretch of sea on Spain’s Costa Blanca.
To protect swimmers red flags were put up, with hefty fines handed to anyone who defied the warnings.
Reg flags also went up on beaches in Guardamar del Segura just north of Torrevieja following the appearance of the blue dragons.
The blue dragons were found on Playa Vivers, located between the mouth of the Segura River and Babilonia beach.
Guardamar del Segura’s mayor Jose Luis Saez, wrote on X: “Red flag on the beaches of Guardamar.
“Bathing is prohibited following the appearance on Vivers Beach of two specimens of Glaucus atlanticus, known as the Blue Dragon.”
He added: “We advise everyone to avoid this animal despite its vibrant and eye-catching color and its small size of 1.5 inches, due to the danger of its sting.”
“Guardamar del Segura Town Hall has launched a preventive operation to detect possible specimens carried by ocean currents.
“Town hall workers are closely following the evolution of the situation and will inform people about the different measures to be taken.
“If you see one of these creatures don’t touch it, even with gloves on, alert lifeguards and other authorities.
“If you get stung, wash the area affected with salt water and head to your nearest first aid point or health centre.
“These creatures are poisonous and their stings can cause nausea, pain and vomiting.
“For the time being and until further notice, bathing in the sea is prohibited.”
