por ALBERTO AZCARATE VARELA
THE BAJA POST/NEWS ROOM
Personnel from central offices and State branch of the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) made a tour for three days in approximately 130 kilometers of beach shores, and counted 137 corpses of California sea lions (Zalophus californianus), 136 males and one female. Marks of anthropogenic origin caused by nets (fishing gear) or blows and cuts caused by some type of vessel were not observed on the dead specimens.
According to a press release, the Attention Protocol for the Stranding of Marine Mammals was activated on September 4, by PROFEPA In response to a communication from the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (Conanp) in Playa San Lázaro, Bahia de Ulloa, Municipality of Comondú, Baja California Sur.
Of these specimens, four were found recently stranded, so, in accordance with the “Protocol of Attention for Stranding of Marine Mammals”, they were measured and samples of brain, lung, heart, liver, kidney and body fat samples were taken, to determine the possible causes of death.
Different laboratories will carry out histopathological, toxicological and bacteriological analysis of the samples taken by Profepa, in order for experts to study them and determine the possible causes of the stranding and death of the specimens of sea lions found dead. In this way, the environmental authorities may apply the corresponding measures for the protection of this species and the ecosystem.
PHOTOGRAPHS: http://www.profepa.gob.mx/
