Toxic algae sickens sea lions in waters off Malibu

An algal bloom with domoic acid has caused illness in sea lions off the coast of Malibu, wildlife advocates said Saturday.

California Wildlife Center workers received to at least 14 reports of suffering sea lions over a four-day period, the nonprofit organization posted on Facebook

“Though we have not confirmed the cause for these animals’ illness, their signs and the recent rains make the situation highly suspicious for domoic acid toxicity,” the post said.

Domoic Acid is an algal bloom that results from the single-celled organism Pseudo-nitzschia. Animals such as sea lions are exposed to benign and toxic strains of DA when the eat contaminated fish.

“In its toxic form, DA damages the brain and heart, even in low doses,” according to the center.

Signs of DA in marine mammals include seizures, a craning head motion known as “stargazing” and extremely lethargic or comatose states.

“These animals are suffering and confused,” the center cautioned. “Do not interact directly with animals such as sea lions in distress as they may lunge and bite without warning.”

The organization advised area residents, visitors and other beachgoers to stay away from animals on the beach and call or text the center at 310-924-7256 to request assistance for animals in distress.

More from Environment