Southern California sees rare marine life due to El Niño

Strengthening El Niño conditions are warming coastal waters in Southern California, leading to an increase in sightings of unusual marine life typically found in tropical and subtropical environments.

Scientists from the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County note that warmer waters and changing currents are bringing species well north of their typical ranges. Reported sightings include hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, mahi-mahi, and a longfinned bigeye. Researchers are also monitoring for yellow-bellied sea snakes, which are rarely documented in California.

Local anglers and fishing captains have reported catching swordfish and tuna, as well as spotting manta rays and blue marlin. While these encounters provide remarkable experiences for fishermen, experts from the Aquarium of the Pacific note that the shifting conditions can also lead to animals becoming sick or stranded.