LOS ANGELES (FW) — Marine life care centers across Southern California are reporting a surge in the number of stranded dolphins and sick seals, likely caused by a growing toxic algal bloom off the coast.
The Marine Mammal Care Center, based in the greater Los Angeles area, and SeaWorld San Diego have reported responding to dozens of stranded animals, many of which are likely victims of the algae Pseudo-nitzschia.
According to NOAA, when marine mammals ingest shellfish contaminated by the algae, toxins can accumulate, leading to seizures, brain damage and even death…