Or as the journalist headed the item: "Potentially deadly creatures wash up on Welsh beach"
An urgent warning has been issued after several Portuguese Man O' War, also known as "Floating Terrors," were found washed up on a popular Welsh beach. The Port Talbot Coastguard released the alert after reported sightings on Aberavon Beach, urging the public to stay cautious and avoid touching the creatures.
Although often mistaken for jellyfish because of their translucent, balloon-like bodies and long, trailing tentacles, the Portuguese Man O' War is actually a siphonophore - a colonial organism made up of many smaller, specialised individuals that work together as one.
Despite their striking appearance, Portuguese Man O’ War are extremely dangerous. Their tentacles deliver a painful sting that can cause red welts, blisters, and in severe cases, fever, shock, or even complications affecting the heart and lungs.
While deaths are rare, Britannica notes that allergic reactions or cardiovascular issues caused by the venom can sometimes be fatal. Even after the organism has died, its tentacles remain capable of stinging, meaning that detached or dead specimens washed ashore are just as dangerous as live ones.
A spokesperson for the Port Talbot Coastguard said: "We're urging everyone visiting Aberavon Beach to stay vigilant. Do not touch these creatures, even if they appear dead, as their tentacles can still deliver a painful sting.
"If you are stung, rinse the affected area with seawater - not fresh water - and carefully remove any tentacles using a credit card or similar object. Immerse the area in water as hot as can be tolerated for at least 30 minutes to help neutralise toxins, and seek medical advice by contacting HM Coastguard or a doctor.
"In a coastal emergency, always call 999 and ask for the Coastguard." Stay informed on everything Neath Port Talbot by signing up to our newsletter here
The Coastguard further confirmed in the comments section that they will not be removing the creature, as it may be carried back out to sea naturally when the tide returns; this is the usual procedure in such cases.
This warning follows a rise in sightings of the marine creature. In September, the Portuguese Man O'War was also seen along the Pembrokeshire coast. Photographer Gareth Davies captured an image of the creature during a visit to Freshwater West beach. His sighting occurred just days after several reports of the species along the Gwynedd and Anglesey coastlines.
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