‘Terrorising us’: bluebottles wash up on Australian beaches in ‘gobsmacking numbers’

There's still much to learn about these strange alien creatures', but climate change likely to create ideal breeding conditions, expert says

• Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates
• Get the free Guardian app; get our morning email briefing

Armadas of alien-like sea creatures have been washing up on Australian beaches thanks to the warm weather but experts warn people should look but not touch.

Jellyfish expert Dr Lisa-ann Gershwin said bluebottles had been washing up on beaches across New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania in gobsmacking numbers" over the last few months thanks to the warmer weather.

Sign up to receive an email with the top stories from Guardian Australia every morning