An unusually high rise in Pacific water temperatures, driven by a strong El Niño climate event, has led to the appearance of tropical fish species considered rare for Southern California off its coast.
Sea-news.az reports with reference to the “Los Angeles Times” that these fish include bullet tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo. After two relatively quiet seasons, sportfishing vessels are once again reporting substantial catches. Among the harvested fish are thousands of yellowfin tuna.
However, current fish activity still lags behind the levels recorded during the severe ocean warming of 2014–2015. Researchers attribute this difference to shifts in fishing intensity and specific oceanographic conditions.
According to scientists, photos and videos shared on social media do not always reflect the true picture of what is occurring in the open sea. One factor driving changes in the marine ecosystem is the emergence of an unusually warm patch of Pacific water off the California coast. Scientists began observing signs of this process earlier this year.
The situation is further influenced by the El Niño phenomenon, which is accompanied by rising surface water temperatures and shifting weather patterns in the equatorial Pacific. The combination of these factors has created favorable conditions for fish species that typically inhabit warmer waters to migrate northward.
For instance, bullet tuna is more commonly found in the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, around the Hawaiian Islands, and in the central Pacific. In recent months, however, unusual activity among marine life has been observed along the coastal stretch from Orange County to Malibu.
Vacationers and anglers have reported encountering whales, hammerhead sharks, and giant rays Alongside tropical fish.
The altered ocean conditions have had a positive impact on sportfishing operators. The return of large fish species has enabled a significant increase in catch volumes following two less productive years. Particularly notable results have been recorded in marlin fishing. According to available data, the number of marlin caught this season could set a record high since 1990.
Nevertheless, experts warn that the unusual appearance of tropical species off the California coast does not prove long-term shifts in the marine ecosystem. The subsequent situation will depend on water temperatures, ocean currents, and the progression of the El Niño event.
