San Diego scientists are collecting samples of ash from California's coast to measure how toxins and urban debris from the Los Angeles wildfires could affect nearby fisheries and the food webs of local ecosystems.

NOAA Fisheries’ scientists will watch for potential effects on fisheries and marine life, including anchovy eggs abundant in waters downwind of the fires. They have collected samples both before and after the eggs were exposed to ash and other debris, for any change in their number and distribution or any effects on their early development.