Japans Ominous Dancing Cats and the Disaster That Followed

In the 1950s, Minamata, Japan, was an idyllic place until mercury contamination from the Chisso Corporation's chemical plant led to severe health issues. Mercury was transformed into toxic methylmercury by bacteria, entering the food chain and causing Minamata disease. The disease affected both animals and humans, leading to severe symptoms and birth defects. Despite the discovery of the cause in 1959, it took until 1968 for Chisso to stop dumping waste. Cleanup efforts began in 1977, but the impact on Minamata's reputation was lasting.

What were some of the appealing features of Minamata in the 1950s?

What chemical did the Chisso Corporation produce that led to the poisoning?

How did anaerobic bacteria contribute to the toxicity of mercury in Minamata?

What symptoms did the cats of Minamata exhibit that indicated they were affected by mercury?

What was the outcome for human residents of Minamata as a result of methylmercury poisoning?

Explain how methylmercury can cross the placental barrier.

What actions were taken by the Chisso Corporation and the government in response to the mercury poisoning?