A recent surge in toxic algae blooms off the coast of Southern California is suspected of causing erratic and aggressive behavior in sea lions, leading to attacks on humans. A 15-year-old girl was recently bitten by a sea lion during a swim test in Long Beach, raising concerns about the impact of domoic acid, a neurotoxin produced by the algae.
The Marine Mammal Center reports an increase in calls regarding distressed sea lions and dolphins, many exhibiting symptoms of poisoning, including disorientation and seizures. While bites from sea lions are rare, experts warn the public to maintain a safe distance from marine life, as affected animals may display unusual aggression.
This year marks the fourth consecutive year of significant domoic acid outbreaks in California, with the current bloom occurring earlier and more intensely than usual. The algae thrives in nutrient-rich waters brought to the surface by upwelling, and the toxins accumulate in marine animals that consume it. While the exact cause of this year's early bloom is under investigation, climate change and debris from recent fires are potential factors.
The West Coast Marine Mammal Stranding Network is overwhelmed by the number of affected animals, facing difficult decisions about which animals to rescue due to limited resources. Sea lions have a 50-65% survival rate with prompt treatment, but domoic acid poisoning is often fatal for dolphins.