CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Unusual marine life has been appearing on Texas beaches, including creatures resembling “dragons” that, despite their beauty, pose a painful sting.
Jace Tunnell with the Harte Research Institute reported finding approximately 20 of these blue dragons – scientifically known as blue glaucus, a type of nudibranch or sea slug – along a stretch of North Padre Island and Mustang Island on Tuesday. He shared images of the creatures on Facebook.
According to Tunnell’s Facebook post, these small animals are visually striking but should not be touched. Blue dragons feed on Portuguese man o’ war and store the stinging cells of their prey.
The concentrated stinging cells mean that a blue dragon’s sting can be “extremely painful,” Tunnell wrote, and they can still sting even after being washed ashore.
Alongside the blue dragons, strong winds are also bringing in other stinging marine organisms, including Portuguese man o’ wars, blue buttons, by-the-wind sailors, and purple sea snails. Oceanographers refer to this collection of species as the “Blue Wave.”
Tunnell cautioned, “The ocean is amazing… but sometimes the most elegant creatures come with a sting.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are blue dragons?
Blue dragons, also known as blue glaucus, are a type of nudibranch or sea slug.
Where have they been spotted in Texas?
Jace Tunnell reported finding around 20 blue dragons on North Padre Island and Mustang Island on Tuesday.
Are blue dragons dangerous?
Yes, blue dragons can sting. They feed on Portuguese man o’ war and store their stinging cells, concentrating them to create a potentially painful sting, even when washed up on the beach.
Given the recent appearance of these creatures, and others like them, what precautions should beachgoers capture to ensure a safe visit to the Texas coast?
