A team of experts has finally determined the cause of death of a Puget Sound orca that died in 2018. The orca, a 20-year-old female named J50, was found dead in the Strait of Juan de Fuca with no obvious signs of injury.

The team, led by researchers from the University of Washington, conducted a thorough investigation of J50's death. They examined her body, analyzed her tissues, and reviewed her medical history. They also interviewed people who had seen J50 in the weeks leading up to her death.

The investigation revealed that J50 died from a combination of factors, including malnutrition, disease, and stress. Malnutrition was the primary cause of death, and it was likely caused by a combination of factors, including the orca's inability to find enough food, the presence of toxins in the environment, and the stress of living in a polluted environment.

Disease also played a role in J50's death. She was infected with several diseases, including pneumonia and brucellosis. These diseases can cause a variety of symptoms, including fever, weakness, and weight loss.

Stress also contributed to J50's death. The orca was living in a polluted environment, and she was also facing a number of other stressors, including the loss of her mother and the presence of noise and other human activities.

The death of J50 is a reminder of the threats that orcas face in the Puget Sound. Orcas are top predators, and they are essential to the health of the marine ecosystem. However, they are facing a number of threats, including pollution, habitat loss, and vessel traffic.

The death of J50 is also a reminder of the importance of research. The team of experts was able to determine the cause of J50's death, which will help us to better understand the threats that orcas face and develop strategies to protect them.