Pervasive Algae Bloom Killing and Sickening California Marine Animals

A dire situation is unfolding along the California coast as the largest algae bloom in recorded history has already killed thousands of marine animals. What is causing this deadly bloom and what should you do if you encounter a sick creature? Read on for all of the details.

Invasive Algae Bloom Killing Marine Animals in California in Record Numbers

Animal rescue centers across California are being inundated with calls about sick and dying animals washing ashore. A quickly growing toxic algae bloom is responsible for the illnesses and deaths.

While these blooms have been an issue periodically over the last few years, the latest invasion is of historic nature. Wildfire experts in the Golden State have confirmed that thousands of mammals and birds have died in the last few months due to the growing algae. The fatality list includes two different species of whales, various birds, dolphins, and sea lions.

The Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC) said that it has been the worst year on record for marine animal deaths. The culprit is a toxin known as domoic acid poisoning, a neurotoxin generated by the algae Pseudo-nitzschia. This type of algae attacks the nervous system, killing the animal or making them sick and disoriented. Veterinarians compare the poisoning to a human having a seizure, as the disorientation can come on suddenly.

Marine biologists believe that the domoic acid has been spreading in the smaller fish species initially. The larger animals then feed on these smaller fish and ingest the toxin up the food chain all the way to the largest whales. The sickening of the whales is indicative of the pervasiveness of the algae blooms.

What is Causing the Spike in the Algae Blooms?