Researchers warn against touching: This beautiful ‘blue dragon’ could cause you pain for hours

class = “sc-cffd1e67-0 iQNQmc”>

It shines beautifully, somehow resembles a Pokémon, and can spoil the party of spring break pilgrims on the beaches of Texas (USA): Glaucus atlanticus, blue ocean snail, or as the animal is also called “blue dragon”.

The animal, which is about 2.5 centimeters in size, is currently washing up in droves on the beaches of the US state. The sea creature found its way there, albeit unintentionally. “They are very poor swimmers and can get carried away by the current,” marine biologist David Campbell tells “BBC.”

“Extreme pain”

But even if they look pretty cute, you should keep your distance. “There are many stories of people accidentally stepping on or picking up a blue ocean snail and getting stung. And it doesn’t end well,” warns marine biologist Jace Tunnell.

“The sting is about three to five times more painful than the sting of the Man-of-War jellyfish,” adds Tunnel. And it can last up to three hours. You may immediately feel that you have been stung by a “Blue Dragon”. This can also happen after the animal dies on the beach. “This is intense pain.” The body’s response may include vomiting and disorientation. In this case, the road to the hospital is inevitable.

The first step that may help after a sting is to pour vinegar or warm water over the wound. In no case should you rub the puncture site with sea water. (dmo)

Source : Blick