Multiple water sports enthusiasts experienced dangerous encounters with an aggressive sea lion near Santa Cruz's coastline on Tuesday. The incidents, involving both a surfer and paddle boarder, occurred during a period marked by elevated domoic acid toxicity levels in marine life. Experts attribute the increased aggression to neurological effects caused by harmful algal bloom toxins, which affect sea lion behavior and cognitive function. Authorities are investigating the attacks and advising water sports enthusiasts to exercise caution in affected areas.

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