Are They a Threat?
No, the dead balloon fish pose no immediate threat to beachgoers, unless left unattended, when they begin to smell and attract scavengers.
Local authorities quickly removed the fish after more than 50 dead specimens washed ashore along the Malecón of La Paz, alarming both residents and tourists.
The unusual die-off, rarely seen at this popular tourist spot, has raised concerns among the community. The incident was reported to the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA), which suspects a harmful algal bloom, known as red tide, may be to blame. Specialists from CICIEMAR-IPN are investigating.
Red tide occurs when toxic algae multiply rapidly, degrading water quality and killing marine life. Another possible cause is sudden temperature fluctuations, which can be fatal for fish unable to adapt quickly. Warmer waters also hold less oxygen, explained climate scientist James Renwick of Victoria University of Wellington, in a recent National Geographic article.
Similar die-offs have been reported along La Paz’s beaches and El Mogote, affecting balloon fish, moray eels, rays, and jellyfish. Months earlier, thousands of dead sardines were found along Los Cabos’ old cannery beach, though that incident did not escalate.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation.