Red Tide Causes Bird Stranding
Author Information
Author(s): Jessup David A., Miller Melissa A., Ryan John P., Nevins Hannah M., Kerkering Heather A., Mekebri Abdou, Crane David B., Johnson Tyler A., Kudela Raphael M.
Primary Institution: California Department of Fish and Game, Marine Wildlife Veterinary Care and Research Center
Hypothesis
What are the effects of a surfactant-producing red tide on marine birds?
Conclusion
The study found that a red tide caused by Akashiwo sanguinea led to significant stranding and mortality of seabirds due to a proteinaceous foam that compromised their feather waterproofing.
Supporting Evidence
- Fourteen seabird species were affected during the 2007 red tide in Monterey Bay.
- A total of 550 stranded alive and 207 were collected fresh dead during this event.
- Live-stranded birds showed signs of severe hypothermia and wetness due to the foam.
- Postmortem examinations revealed that most birds were in poor nutritional condition.
- No evidence of exposure to petroleum or other oils or biotoxins was found.
- 42% of affected fulmars recovered and were released after rehabilitation.
Takeaway
A harmful algal bloom made seabirds sick by coating their feathers with a slimy foam, making them wet and cold, which caused many to strand on the beach.
Methodology
The study involved monitoring bird strandings, conducting postmortem examinations, and analyzing the foam and feathers for chemical composition.
Limitations
The study may not account for previous undetected similar events and the long-term impacts of red tides on bird populations.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on fourteen species of seabirds affected by the red tide, particularly those that feed in nearshore habitats.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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