The number of marine mammals affected by toxic algal blooms in California has surged, primarily impacting sea lions, seals, dolphins, and whales. A significant spike in cases at the Marine Mammal Care Center indicates a troubling trend linked to the neurological toxin domoic acid, which affects the brain and heart of these animals. The increase in toxic blooms is attributed to climate change, leading to longer-lasting and more intense exposures. Prompt treatment is essential for affected animals to prevent permanent damage and improve recovery chances.
In the last four years, the impacts have been really heavy on the marine mammal side, both sea lions, some fur seals, and quite a few long-beaked common dolphins.
Domoic acid attacks the animal's brain and heart, leading to seizures and heart failure, often causing permanent brain damage if left untreated.
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