A minke whale swimming in Long Beach Harbor has died from domoic acid poisoning, officials reported. This incident is linked to a toxic algal bloom that has affected many marine animals in Southern California.
The whale, which was about 24 feet long, was spotted in the harbor for several days before it was found dead on April 3. Attempts were made to guide the whale back to sea, but it returned to the harbor. Tests revealed high levels of domoic acid in its urine, indicating poisoning consistent with other marine mammals impacted by the algal bloom.
Michael Milstein, a spokesperson for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), explained that this year’s harmful algal bloom started earlier than in previous years. The bloom was fueled by an ocean upwelling that brought nutrients to the surface, allowing the algae to thrive. Experts also suggest that climate change and runoff from recent wildfires contributed to the bloom.
Domoic acid is a neurotoxin that accumulates in filter-feeding fish, such as anchovies and sardines. Marine mammals, including seals and sea lions, that consume these fish are at risk. This year, hundreds of sea lions and dolphins have been reported sick due to the toxin.
Milstein noted that this is the fourth consecutive year of domoic acid events, but this year’s situation appears to be particularly severe, especially given its early onset. He expressed concern about how long the bloom might last and its potential impact on marine life.
Minke whales, which are the smallest members of the baleen whale family, are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. There are approximately 900 minke whales along the coasts of Oregon, Washington, and California.
In addition to the minke whale, a dead gray whale was found washed ashore in Huntington Beach last week. The Pacific Marine Mammal Center is conducting a necropsy to determine the cause of death for that whale as well.
Experts urge the public to avoid interacting with sick marine animals, as they may display aggressive behavior. While the current situation is alarming, Milstein believes that the overall population of marine mammals along the West Coast is resilient and may withstand this event.