Beachgoers at Muizenberg were met with an unusual and potentially dangerous sight this morning after several blue dragon sea slugs washed up along the shoreline. The tiny creatures, scientifically known as , are instantly recognisable by their electric-blue colouring and delicate, wing-like limbs, but experts warn that their striking appearance hides a serious threat.
Despite measuring less than three centimetres in length, blue dragons are extremely venomous and can sting even when they are dead. Authorities have urged the public not to touch them under any circumstances and to keep children and pets well away from the affected areas.
Blue dragons are surface-dwelling sea slugs that float upside down using a gas-filled sac in their bodies, allowing them to drift with ocean currents and winds. They are usually found in warm, open oceans but are sometimes carried closer to shore after strong winds or rough seas. Their blue-and-silver colouring acts as camouflage, protecting them from predators both above and below the water.
