An unprecedented number of sea slugs called blue dragons have been seen in Maroubra Beach and other beaches in NSW, posing a dangerous threat for swimmers.
While blue dragons have been reported before, specifically in 2018 and 2021, the numbers that have recently washed up at Maroubra beach, as well as Bondi beach, were higher than ever in late January 2023.
Compared to bluebottles, blue dragons have a more potent sting that isn’t life-threatening or venomous but could deliver the most excruciating pain, according to marine biologist Julian Obayd. He has been sharing information about blue dragons and other unique sea creatures on his TikTok account.
@julianobayd Replying to @J̷o̷e̷l̷ 🎶 (PART 1) Forgot i did this informative video on Blue Dragons with help from @The Dodo thank you Carolina if you’re reading this 🙂 🐉 #venomous #dangerous #bluedragon #beach #beachvibes #alien #rescue #manowar #fish ♬ original sound – Dragon Hunter
If stung by this sea creature, the experts advise rinsing the area with seawater and never freshwater. It’s also best to avoid rubbing the area and instead soak the sting in comfortable hot water for at least 20 minutes.
The heat should help with pain relief but if hot water is not available, ice packs may be applied to the area as well. If pain persists, medical assistance must be done as soon as possible.
Blue dragons usually appear in late summer but with the water temperature rising, its numbers have been inevitably increasing.
Professor David Schoeman of the University of the Sunshine Coast believes that more unusual occurrences will happen in marine life as the heatwave continues. The waters in Bondi or Maroubra beach will not only get warmer but such a temperature will be longer in duration by 2050.
Published 9 March 2023