Record Levels Of Domoic Acid In Algae Blooms Killing SoCal Birds & Mammals - ENN

[hatrack]

LOS ANGELES -- An algae bloom in Southern California coastal waters has produced record levels of a toxic acid, scientists reported Wednesday. The chemical has been blamed in the deaths of numerous marine mammals and seabirds in recent months. Measurements from four coastal stations last month found the highest domoic acid concentrations at 27 micrograms per liter, said David Caron of the University of Southern California.

"I have never seen these kind of numbers before," Caron said. Last year, the highest levels stood at 12 micrograms per liter. Recent measurements taken this month found the toxin levels had substantially declined, suggesting the seasonal algae bloom may have peaked, Caron said.

Domoic acid is a naturally occurring chemical produced by microscopic algae. Birds and sea mammals ingest the acid by eating fish and shellfish that consume the algae. People who eat fish and shellfish tainted with the acid can experience nausea, seizures and even death.

Last month, state health officials warned consumers against eating certain locally harvested shellfish and seafood that may be tainted with domoic acid.

EDIT

http://www.enn.com/today.html?id=12744

[phantom power]

1. I'm going to hate the future.

[kestrel91316]

2. They always try to emphasize how this is a "naturally-occurring" toxin.

The elephant in the room is, of course, the fact that algae levels have skyrocketed due to increased ocean pollution and warmer waters. They always conveniently leave that part out of the articles.

[XemaSab]

3. Yesterday on the beach

there were about 12 grebes, a gull, 2 cormorants, a fulmar, and a dowitcher.

Typically there are 1-2 birds a day. :shrug: