The parasite, which is spread through contact with feces from infected animals, causes neurological damage and can lead to paralysis and death. It was first identified in sea otters in 2001, and has since spread to populations along the entire California coast.
The study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, found that the strain of Sarcocystis neurona that is killing sea otters is different from the strains that have been found in other animals, such as raccoons and skunks. This suggests that the parasite may have evolved to specifically target sea otters.
"This is a very concerning finding," said lead author Dr. Melissa Miller, a researcher at the University of California, Santa Cruz. "We don't know why this particular strain of Sarcocystis neurona is so deadly to sea otters, but it is clear that it is having a devastating impact on the population."
Sea otters are a keystone species in the California coastal ecosystem, and their decline has had a ripple effect on other species, such as sea urchins and kelp. The loss of sea otters has also led to an increase in the number of shark attacks on humans.
"The identification of the parasite that is killing sea otters is a critical step towards developing a treatment or vaccine," said Miller. "We are working with other researchers and agencies to develop strategies to protect this iconic species."
