Imagine a corner of paradise, with golden beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, turquoise waters gently caressing the shore. But behind this idyllic image lies a disturbing reality: a beach in the Canary Islands recently made headlines due to the presence of a fearsome blue dragon, a phenomenon that is both fascinating and terrifying. This mythical creature, which seems straight out of a fantastic tale, has caused panic among bathers and locals, leading to the temporary closure of a popular access point. Let’s dive together into the captivating and mysterious universe of this island legend, where reality and fantasy intertwine in unexpected ways.
An unexpected threat beneath the waters
The sunny beaches and heavenly coasts of Canary Islands are often synonymous with relaxation and serenity. However, a recent discovery has left residents and tourists on the island of Gran Canaria worried. The town hall of Gáldar has decided to close a beach due to the presence of a dangerous mollusc, known as blue dragon, scientist Glaucus atlanticus.
This small being, 2 to 3 centimeters long, appeared in the Los Dos Roques area, prompting local authorities to put in place strict security measures. Bathers are urged to be vigilant to avoid potentially fatal stings.
The disturbing characteristics of the blue dragon
The blue dragon is easily recognizable by its vibrant coloring, a mix of electric blue and silver gray. However, behind this magnificent camouflage hides a venom comparable to that of jellyfish, which can cause:
- Skin irritations
- Acute pain
- Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock
This small mollusk, although generally harmless, becomes dangerous when it feels threatened. Its natural habitat is the high seas, but it sometimes happens that it is seen near the coast, and this is what alarmed the authorities.
Beach closure: measures and recommendations
Faced with this threat, Gáldar town hall took the decision to close the beach, warning visitors and residents that swimming was strictly prohibited. Bathers are invited to cooperate and report to rescuers if they discover this animal: “Bathers are asked to cooperate by not entering the water”, underlined a spokesperson for the town hall.
Authorities remain vigilant and continue to monitor the situation closely. It is essential for anyone planning to frequent beaches in this area to stay informed of local conditions and possible swimming area closures.
An ecosystem to respect
This situation reminds us that Canary Islands, while being a popular tourist destination, are home to a rich and sometimes unpredictable marine fauna. Visitors should always be aware of the hidden dangers that certain marine species may pose.
To fully enjoy their vacation while ensuring their safety, it is recommended to:
- Find out about swimming conditions before entering the water
- Wear protective shoes when on the beach
- Immediately alert rescuers in the event of an encounter with a suspicious marine animal
The natural beauty of the islands is not only to be admired, it must also be respected. Vigilance and caution are required to guarantee an unforgettable experience in this sunny paradise.
