Bizarre-Looking Toxic Sea Creatures Wash Up On Coastline, Raise Concerns For Pets

Hundreds of bizarre-looking sea creatures have reportedly washed up along Western Australia's coast over the past few weeks, raising concerns among experts.

According to Yahoo News Australia, a large species of sea hare have been washing up along the Augusta coastline and lower parts of the Hardy Inlet since Feb. 10.

"Numbers of the animals on the beaches are fluctuating daily with tide, swell and wind conditions, although dying and freshly deceased animals, along with partially decomposed animals appear to be coming ashore every night," Shire of Augusta Margaret River's coordinator for land care and environment, John McKinney, told the Yahoo News Australia.

McKinney added there is concern for dogs in the area as these creatures are toxic.

"The Shire understands that in certain circumstances some species of sea hares can be toxic to dogs and has erected signage at key locations throughout Augusta to advise dog owners to be vigilant," McKinney said.

Due to the increasing number of these creatures on the shores lately, removal of the sea hares that are already there is not being considered.

McKinney also said other than the toxic sea hares, there have been reports of algal blooms in the area. The recent presence of naturally occurring Trichodesmium species is however not believed to be linked to the sea hares.

But, concerns grow as a combination of the two and seaweed may be responsible for a pungent smell.

"This algal species can produce a very fishy smell when decomposing and it is believed that a combination of decomposing algae, seaweed and potentially sea hares is responsible for a reported smell," McKinney said in the statement.

Western Australia's Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development said in a notice they are aware of the situation and that water samples have been collected for testing.

"Sea hares and water samples were collected this morning and will be transported to Perth for analysis," the notice said Thursday. "Updates will be issued when further information is available. In the meantime, people are reminded to stay safe around fish kills."