SICK SEA LIONS SIGNAL RISING TOXIN RISK ALONG CALIFORNIA COAST

Sea lions along the California coast are contracting a toxic illness at an alarming rate, exceeding the average number of annual cases researchers typically treat, experts warned.

Scientists say the rise in sick marine mammals serves as a direct warning to humans about ocean safety and seafood contamination.

California sea lions across the state are falling ill with domoic acid poisoning, also known as toxicosis. The naturally occurring neurotoxin accumulates in fish and shellfish that marine mammals consume. "This toxin is evolving in terms of its unpredictability," said Giancarlo Rulli of the Marine Mammal Center. "This used to be a seasonal disease that we would see during the summer."

Learn More