Dolphins living in the Indian River Lagoon faced Alzheimer’s-like changes to their brains during harmful algal bloom season, according to a recently released 10-year study .

The alterations in the dolphins’ brains include synapse dysfunction, increased expression of Alzheimer’s disease-related genes and changes in the brain that lead to symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

The study, conducted by researchers from Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute and the University of Miami, found that algal-bloom neurotoxin concentrations in the dolphins’ brains were nearly 3,000 times higher during warm weather algal bloom season than in cooler months.

High water temperatures and nutrient pollution from farms, lawns and faulty septic systems have driven harmful algal blooms in Florida, including in the

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