A harmful algae bloom that has extended down the California coast, originating from San Luis Obispo County, is causing illness and death in over 1,000 sea lions and dolphins. The coastline has seen an alarming number of animals washing up in recent weeks. The bloom, produced by a species of marine plankton containing the toxin domoic acid, has had the greatest impact off Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. Staff at the Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute are struggling to keep up with the influx of affected animals, and the impact has been observed as far south as Los Angeles and Orange County.
The affected marine mammals, primarily sea lions and dolphins but also including whales and other species, consume smaller fish like squid, sardines, and anchovies that have ingested the poisonous plankton. The toxins can cause seizures, severe brain inflammation, and ultimately lead to death through irreversible brain damage. Between June 8 and 14 alone, there were over 1,000 reports of sick or dead animals, including more than 100 dolphins, according to Ruth Dover, co-founder and managing director of the Channel Islands center.
In response to the crisis, the Marine Mammal Care Center Los Angeles has warned beachgoers to stay away from stranded animals and to report any exhibiting neurological symptoms. Although lethargic animals may seem approachable on the beach, they pose a greater risk of biting people and pets. The center has been inundated with California sea lions in need of treatment, including mothers and pups.
The situation has prompted the Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro to expand its facility and create additional space to accommodate the influx of sick animals. As of now, the center has already taken in 60 animals showing signs of neurological impacts, with two having already died. Sea lions have been found stranded on beaches in Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and Palos Verdes, while dolphins have also been discovered dead or dying. The increasingly dire situation is placing a financial strain on the center, with unanticipated costs of $250,000.
The timing of the bloom is particularly concerning as it coincides with the birthing season for sea lion pups, which typically occurs between June 15 and July 15. The toxic bloom poses a threat to both pregnant sea lions and their newborns, as the toxins can be passed on. Marine mammal rescue centers are bracing for an early start to the rescue season, as the domoic acid could lead to pups being in distress earlier than usual.
Overall, the harmful algae bloom plaguing the Southern California coast is wreaking havoc on the marine ecosystem, resulting in a significant number of sick and deceased sea lions, dolphins, and other marine mammals. The affected animals are suffering from the effects of consuming fish that have ingested the toxic domoic acid-laden plankton. The situation requires urgent attention and resources to lessen the impact and protect the vulnerable marine life in the region.
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