A marine creature suspected to be a Pokémon has prompted Spanish authorities to close several beaches in the Costa Blanca region of eastern Spain.
The creature in question, known as the “blue dragon” (Glaucus Atlanticus), is notable for its striking appearance and painful sting.
According to the British newspaper The Independent, several samples of this rare organism have washed ashore at Guardamar del Segura in Alicante province. In response, local authorities have enacted immediate precautionary measures, including a swimming ban and warnings to visitors to keep away from the water.
Local police described the marine creature in a social media post as “having an unusual shape and bright colors reminiscent of Pokémon characters.” They warned that contact with it can cause “painful skin burns” due to its high toxicity.
These marine organisms are small, reaching a maximum length of 4 centimeters but feed on venomous jellyfish. They float on the surface of the water aided by gas bubbles, which allow them to move with air and sea currents. Despite their small size, their sting can cause symptoms such as nausea, severe pain, and vomiting.
In a statement to the media, Mayor José Luis Saez reported that two specimens of the “blue dragon” were found at Viviers Beach. He emphasized the importance of not touching these creatures, even with gloves, and urged citizens to notify rescue teams or relevant authorities upon sighting them.
The temporary swimming ban that was implemented on Wednesday, August 20, was lifted the following day, Thursday, August 21, but the yellow warning flag remains raised to indicate a “moderate risk level.”
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