Large collections of an algae species called “lyngbia” were taken from Sanibel Island shorelines, where they washed up this week.

In some parts of the world, lyngbia is known to be cancerous.

"Fisherman in Australia have gotten rashes and blisters on their hands from handling it a lot. Scientists have identified several tumor compounds," researcher Eric Berris told NBC2 news.

Berris and other researchers are trying to determine if the algae collected along Sanibel is a cancer-causing strain.

“It's definitely not good on sea grass blades," said Berris, who hopes to issue a full report within a few weeks. Until then, and perhaps after, the researchers advise the public to avoid contact with the algae.