RARE SEA CREATURES WASHED ASHORE CHENNAI'S MARINA BEACH

Just over a week ago, the coastal area of Tamil Nadu was battered by the cyclonic storm 'Gaja'. Major districts in the delta region continue to suffer even today. While the state capital of Chennai did not face any major impact, a rare Blue Button Jelly Fish variety has been spotted at a city beach.

Environmentalists and enthusiasts in the area believe that the rare species coming up ashore could have been an effect of cyclone Gaja. Enthusiasts and wildlife lovers have been thronging to Chennai's Marina beach to see the beautiful creatures.

According to records, the fish, likewise called Porpita, are an alternate kind of jellyfish, a pilgrim animal made up of hydroids. According to multiple reports, the fish variety was also spotted at the Jersey Shore after the Hurricane Florence receded in October. They were again spotted in Mumbai after August 2017 floods. This is reportedly the first time that they are being spotted at Marina beach in Chennai.

Primarily found in the Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean, these tiny fish grow a maximum of up to one inch in size. While the blue, button-like creatures can be viewed from a distance, multiple scientific sources cite them as being poisonous. A slight touch could cause irritation to the skin and the visitors are advised to not touch them or carry them in hands.