"Don't Touch Because It's Pretty"... Warning Issued for Blue Creatures Appearing at Resorts

"If You Accidentally Touch It, Wash the Area with Vinegar"

The Thai authorities have issued a warning after the discovery of the toxic "Blue Dragon" (blue sea slug) along the coast of Phuket.

Blue Dragon, known as the blue sea slug. Photo by Getty Images

According to a recent report by the Bangkok Post, the Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center of Thailand announced on July 11 that it had received a report of the blue sea slug appearing at Karon Beach in Phuket.

The center explained that the organism was confirmed to have been washed ashore by strong waves, measuring 1 to 2 meters in height. The center added, "The species discovered is Glaucus and is only about 0.5 centimeters in length."

The blue sea slug does not produce its own toxins, but it stores the stinging cells of jellyfish it preys upon in its body, making it toxic. Floating upside down on the water's surface as if swimming backstroke, the blue sea slug is also called the "Blue Dragon" due to its blue body and protrusions extending from both sides.

This species is known to mainly inhabit the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans. However, it has recently expanded its range and has also been observed off the southeastern and southern coasts of South Africa, in European waters, near Mozambique, and along the eastern coast of Australia.

Its main prey includes the "blue button jellyfish" (Porpita porpita) and the "by-the-wind sailor" (Velella velella), both of which were also found in the same waters this time.

The center warned that contact with the blue sea slug can cause pain and a burning sensation similar to a jellyfish sting, and strongly advised against touching or handling it. If accidental contact occurs, the affected area should be washed with vinegar, just as one would do after a jellyfish sting.