The successful release of 100 000 turtles from Cabo’s
beaches during the 2016 season was reported just last week.
So, it was particularly upsetting to read later in that same
week, that almost 100 turtles had been found dead on the beaches of La Paz and
Cabo. Fishermen had also reported seeing dead turtles at sea – and suspected it
was the result of the “marea roca”, or “red tide”.
A "red tide" is a common term used for a
harmful algal bloom. Harmful algal blooms occur when colonies of algae—simple
plants that live in the sea and freshwater—grow out of control while producing
toxic or harmful effects on people, fish, shellfish, marine mammals, and birds.
The algal blooms can change the color of the water
because they have pigments which they catch the light of the sun. These
pigments can be red, yellow, green, coffee or combinations.
The environmental authorities – ZOFEMAT and PROFEPA –
have been checking water samples from all the affected areas. So far, no trace
of “red tide” has been found in the immediate vicinities.
BUT, the turtles were all found in an advanced stage of
decomposition. Indicating that they may been affected further afield. For example,
in Sonora, where it has already been recommended not to eat seafood at the moment.
The situation is being closely monitored as more samples
are analysed. Nothing definitive has yet been confirmed.
There have been no more dead turtles. And right now,
there is no warning against eating seafood.