Unknown / Black Swan

The discovery of rabies in Cape Fur Seals represents a significant ecological anomaly with the potential for unforeseen cascading effects on both marine ecosystems and human health. This development is particularly concerning as rabies is a highly infectious and lethal disease that could spread to other marine species and potentially to humans, especially those involved in marine activities or living in coastal areas. The unexpected nature of this outbreak, combined with the potential for rapid and wide-ranging impacts, elevates the risk level. Furthermore, the ecological balance could be disrupted, leading to broader environmental consequences that are difficult to predict and manage.