💙Good News for local marine life! For months, a harmful algal bloom has left local species like sea lions, dolphins, and seabirds sick or dying along the Southern California coast. More than 1,670 marine animals have been reported stranded this year — more than any toxic bloom event in the past 4 years. Over 1,250 of these were in LA, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties. However, signs of recovery are finally here. As of May 6, 2025, scientists from the Southern California Coastal Ocean Observing System (SCCOOS) found ZERO harmful algae cells (per liter) in water samples from Santa Monica Pier and other local beaches—a hopeful sign that this dangerous bloom is easing. These algae (specifically Alexandrium + Pseudo-nitzschia) produced potent neurotoxins like saxitoxin and domoic acid, which have paralyzed marine animals and even caused seizures or death. Rescue centers like @marinemammalcare have been working tirelessly to save affected wildlife. While it’s still too early to say whether this trend will hold, it offers marine life a much-needed window for recovery. What was behind this unprecedented ecological epidemic? The latest bulletin from SCOOS points to a persistent cold-water event—the longest since 2011— that began as early as December off Baja and Scripps Pier. This cold upwelling brought high nutrient levels (like nitrate & silicic acid), fueling massive blooms of toxic algae, including: Pseudo-nitzschia – linked to domoic acid poisoning (shown in image) Alexandrium – caused the first prolonged saxitoxin shellfish advisories in SoCal Akashiwo & Margalefidinium – also detected nearshore, though with no known impacts (yet) This is a powerful reminder of how climate-driven ocean changes can trigger widespread harm to marine life. Stay informed and support science-based coastal protection. . . . 📸 Graph and algae picture courtesy of Southern California Coastal Ocean Observing System (SCCOOS) (fb)

(fb)