You can look—but we suggest that you *not* touch the blue glaucus (Glaucus atlanticus). Also known as the blue dragon, this tiny sea slug packs a powerful punch. Though it typically measures only 1.2 inches (3 cm) long, it specializes in eating venomous siphonophores—like the Portuguese man o’ war. It then repurposes the toxic chemicals from its prey as a defense for itself. The blue glaucus’ sting has been known to induce nausea, vomiting, and agonizing pain. Their venom can remain active even after death!

Photo: Daniel Mietchen, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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