California is known for its fabulous West Coast beaches but animal deaths and recent attacks across multiple beaches have brought up questions. In Southern California, recent algae blooms have created a phytoplankton called pseudo-nitzschia australis, also known as Domoic Acid.

The acid can be very harmful physically but also mentally. In Long Beach, a Millikan sophomore in PEACE, Phoebe B. was attacked by a sea lion on Mar. 30th as a result of the acid affecting the sea lion’s brain. Luckily, as dangerous as sea lions can be, she suffered no serious injuries. 

 For animals such as sea lions, marinemammalcenter.org says, “Domoic acid attacks the brain and the heart causing seizures and heart failure. If left untreated, it usually causes permanent brain damage.” 

In addition to the “rabid” sea lions, two dead whales have washed up on shore due to the acid poisoning: a teen humpback on Jan. 24th in Huntington Beach and a minke whale on Apr. 6th in Long Beach.

Domoic acid can also have effects on humans. According to cdph.ca.gov, there are both minor and major effects on humans such as vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, seizures, comas, and more. 

Marine Biology teacher, Mrs. Durham says, “It can make us very sick or actually be deadly because there is no antidote for the neurotoxin.” Durham continued,“It can also give any mammals lasting neurological damage.”

 Since this has only occurred  a few times, Mrs. Durham says scientists aren’t sure how exactly to help quite yet, but these blooms will only continue to occur if not researched. While the acid can affect swimming people, it also affects the wildlife around them. The animals affected are more prone to attacking people than normal, if you do go swimming it is important to be aware of your surroundings.