Marine mammal rescue organizations in Southern California have been inundated with reports of sick and deceased sea lions and dolphins this month, and experts attribute this to a harmful algae bloom.
According to the National Marine Fisheries Service of NOAA Fisheries, hundreds of sea lions are believed to have died in the first weeks of June. In addition, approximately 100 dolphins have been found dead, as reported by Michelle Berman Kowalewski, founder and director of the Channel Islands Cetacean Research Unit.
Tissue samples have been collected to confirm that the animals are victims of domoic acid, a neurotoxin produced by the algae Pseudo-nitzschia. The toxin enters the food chain and affects marine mammals through their prey.
Domoic acid also poses a risk to humans who consume crustaceans, fish, and shellfish that have accumulated high levels of the toxin. According to the California Department of Public Health, consuming domoic acid in large quantities can be fatal.
While domoic acid poisoning episodes are not uncommon along the California coast, the current outbreak is exceptionally severe. Michelle Berman Kowalewski, who has been responding to strandings in the area for 20 years, describes it as the most intense situation she has ever witnessed.
Unlike a previous episode last year, the spread of domoic acid appears to be affecting more offshore areas. It was previously concentrated closer to the shoreline and primarily impacted sea lions. Beachgoers are urged to avoid stranded animals and contact rescue organizations for assistance.
The Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute has received over 1,000 reports of distressed marine mammals from June 8 to June 14. The organization is currently managing more than 200 reports per day.
According to NOAA Fisheries, high concentrations of domoic acid have been detected from Orange County to San Luis Obispo County. The Santa Barbara Channel off Santa Barbara and Ventura counties is particularly affected due to factors such as nutrients flushed into the ocean by rainfall and winds causing upwelling.
These conditions promote algae growth, which is then consumed by fish like anchovies. Marine mammals feed on these anchovies, leading to the harmful effects of domoic acid. Berman Kowalewski refers to the current situation as a perfect storm.
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