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In July, shocking images from Botswana caused a sensation: Elephants died en masse in southern Africa.
More than 350 animals had died under mysterious circumstances. 70 percent of the bodies were found near water wells. The scientists were lost and spoke of a “disaster for the protection of the species”. The exact cause was not clear initially; poisoning or unknown pathogen was suspected.
Poisoned water
Now the cause of death seems clear. As “Bloomberg” reports, blue-green algae (also called cyanobacteria), which form deadly toxins, are responsible for the mass extinction. Blood samples from the animals, as well as soil and water samples, could confirm this, says the wildlife park authority’s chief veterinarian, Mmadi Reuben.
The water in the Okavango Delta was poisoned by blue-green algae. The animals absorbed the toxins while drinking. “Elephants are the only animals that drink below the surface of the water and absorb the sludge that contains these toxins,” Reuben said.
Other studies should show why the toxins were formed. Around 15,000 elephants live in the delta, which represents ten percent of the total population of Botswana. (man)
