In a rented lab in Los Angeles, Keith Matassa, founder of OARRA, investigates the deaths of marine mammals, particularly sea lions and dolphins. NOAA Fisheries reported approximately 1,700 stranded animals from February to May, with 75% dead or dying. Matassa's workdays are extensive, often extending from early morning until late evening, involving consultations with lifeguards and necropsies of stranded animals. His insights into the fetuses of marine mammals reveal intricate and well-formed structures. OARRA was created five years ago to address the urgent need for studying dead marine life along the coastline.
Matassa's focused effort included examining a California sea lion fetus in meticulous detail, revealing the 'perfect structures' within, such as the vibrant ribcage and powerful adrenal gland.
NOAA Fisheries reported a concerning wave of mortality, with about 1,700 imperiled sea lions and dolphins, wherein approximately 75% were already dead or later succumbed.
Keith Matassa's dedication to performing necropsies quickly amassed an unusual workload, with OARRA's two-person team tackling the annual incidents in just three weeks.
OARRA was established five years ago to fill a critical gap in studying the dead marine mammals along LA's coastline after the need for it became evident.
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