by Marie Kauna – EMTV Online, Port Moresby
Scientists along the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California have found dozens of poisoned dolphins, whales and sea lions.
Studies and tests have shown that the cause of the poisoning of the marine species is a result of a toxin caused by a massive algae bloom.
This giant toxic algae bloom is now causing an alarming rise in the acid levels, posing a greater threat to the Pacific Ocean, and could possibly affect crab season in the Pacific.
When comparing these toxic algae bloom with food poisoning, Kathi Lafabvre, a biologist at the Northwest Fisheries Science Centre in Seattle says, “Absolutely more toxin in the food web means more times when seafood is potentially not going to be safe”.
Lafabvre added that when the acid levels get too high, crabs cannot be harvested for consumption, as their safety is unknown.
California Fish and Wildlife is carrying out tests in the Pacific Ocean waters and directly on the crabs as well.
