Major Algae Bloom Wreaks Havoc on Marine Life in San Diego

News Summary

San Diego is grappling with a harmful algae bloom that is severely affecting marine wildlife, notably causing an increase in domoic acid poisoning among sea lions and birds. This outbreak has prompted SeaWorld’s rescue team to respond to a record number of cases, with significant rises in animal rescues reported this year. Experts highlight the severity of the situation, which has led to public health warnings regarding shellfish consumption from affected areas.

Major Algae Bloom Wreaks Havoc on Marine Life in San Diego

San Diego is facing a severe challenge as a toxic algae bloom off the California coast is causing a significant increase in domoic acid poisoning among local wildlife, particularly impacting sea lions and birds. This year alone, SeaWorld’s animal rescue team has rescued a staggering 47 sea lions and 30 birds exhibiting signs of poisoning, which is a sharp rise compared to previous years, with only 11 sea lions rescued last year and 18 in 2023.

A Record Year for Rescues

Experts are calling this outbreak one of the worst the region has faced in recent years. Reports indicate that the bloom began to impact marine life in late February, intensifying in mid-February, starting from the Santa Barbara area and rapidly spreading. In just the past month, hundreds of marine animals including dolphins and various marine mammals have been stranded or sickened throughout California.

The culprit here is a neurotoxin known as domoic acid, produced by harmful algae. This toxin is notorious for causing seizures, heart failure, and even uncharacteristically aggressive behavior in affected sea lions. Unfortunately, the treatment outcomes for those afflicted vary significantly—sea lions have about a 50-50 chance of survival after treatment, while dolphins face grim odds, with many cases proving fatal.

Rescue Teams Under Pressure

To cope with the overwhelming number of cases, SeaWorld has doubled the staff of its rescue team. They are receiving about 100 calls a day from concerned citizens reporting stranded or sick animals. The symptoms of domoic acid poisoning in sea lions are concerning: lethargy, aggression, unusual movements—often referred to as “stargazing”—and a general inability to react to human presence. Pregnant sea lions are at an even higher risk due to their increased food intake, making them more susceptible to the toxin.

The Scope of the Bloom

SeaWorld’s rescue teams report that this bloom is larger and more impactful than those seen in previous years, affecting various species, including pelicans. Staff members are working tirelessly in a high-pressure environment that resembles a hospital setting, dealing with emergency cases on a daily basis. Treatments for sick animals typically include fluids and medication, and necropsies are performed on deceased animals to better understand the underlying causes of death.

Public Safety and Awareness

Community Involvement Needed

The current crisis has led to a marked increase in public reports of stranded or sick animals. SeaWorld urges community members to take part in reporting any sightings of distressed marine life. Timely reporting can significantly impact rescue efforts and improve the chances of recovery for these creatures.

To further assist in addressing these harmful algae blooms, scientists are actively studying past outbreaks to uncover potential contributing factors and the unexpected severity of this year’s bloom. Local residents are also encouraged to adopt environmentally friendly practices to help mitigate conditions that lead to such harmful algal growths. Every little bit helps in creating a healthier marine environment!

As San Diego faces the challenges of this algae bloom, it highlights the interconnectedness of our ecosystem and the importance of being proactive in protecting marine life. By working together and staying informed, we can all play a part in the recovery and preservation of our oceans.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• NBC San Diego: Toxic Algae Bloom Sickening Sea Lions and Seals
• Wikipedia: Domoic Acid
• CBS 8: Toxic Algae Bloom Wreaks Havoc on Sea Lions and Pelicans
• Google Search: Toxic Algae Bloom California
• San Diego Union Tribune: Sea Lions and Birds Sickened by Toxic Algae Bloom
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Algae
• Fox 5 San Diego: Tijuana River Sewage and Algae Bloom
• Google Scholar: Domoic Acid Poisoning Sea Lions