A RARE animal usually found in tropical water has been spotted on a beach in Sussex.

The Portuguese Man o’ war was found on a beach in the village of Climping, near Littlehampton, on Wednesday morning.

The marine hydrozoan, similar to a jellyfish, is typically found in the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean.

In a statement released by Arun District Council, the public were warned to be aware of the sea creature.

“Portuguese Man o’ war, which is similar to a jellyfish, have been seen on the beach at Climping,” a council spokeswoman said.

“They come from warmer climates in the Atlantic, however the very strong winds that we have been experiencing may have redirected them to our shores.

“Please be cautious when walking on the beach. Do not touch them and keep dogs on leads.

“The sting from a Portuguese Man o’ war can be very painful and if ingested by a dog can be toxic and in some cases fatal.”

The Argus: Portuguese Man o’ war spotted on Brighton beach last week. Credit: Sammie Bailey Portuguese Man o’ war spotted on Brighton beach last week. Credit: Sammie Bailey

Last week, another Portuguese Man-o'-War was spotted on Brighton beach.

The creature takes its name from an 18th century warship of the same name, as well as the animal's resemblance to the Portuguese version of the vessel at full sail.