A stretch of the Spanish coast has been closed to holidaymakers and residents following sightings of venomous sea creatures.
Approximately 11 kilometres of beaches in Guardamar del Segura until further notice due to the appearance of a small mollusc known as the Blue Dragon.
The swimming restriction was confirmed by Guardamar mayor, Luis Saez this week.
Two specimens of the Blue Dragon, also known as Glaucus Atlanticus, were detected at Playa Vivers.
The bite of the creature can cause nausea, vomiting and intense pain.
Despite their eye-catching blue and shiny appearance, local authorities council they should not be touched under any circumstances, not even with gloves.
Any swimmer who spots the creature in the water or on the beach is asked to immediately alert any lifeguard.
Glaucus Atlanticus are known for their blue and shiny appearance
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The creatures are usually found in tropical and subtropical oceans and are common in the waters of the Canary Islands.
Warning alerts are issued to swimmers, however they are not usually found off the Spanish coast.
Municipal services in the area have launched a special surveillance operation to detect if sea currents have washed more of the molluscs to the coast.
If any swimmer or beach goer gets stung, then it is recommended to rinse the impacted area of the body with salt water before seeking medical help.
Glaucus atlanticus are usually found in warmer waters
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Red flags, indicating swimming is prohibited, will be raised along the Guardamar coast.
They will remain in place until the situation improves, authorities said.