Theories of how this advanced civilization deteriorated so quickly are currently being formulated. Renowned Sea Monkey anthropologist Wes C. Addle said, "It is possible that we are looking at a modern plague. One that moved quickly from host to host, thus eliminating the entire population. Another strong possibility is a rare Sea Monkey sexually transmitted disease that has occurred in the past. It may have been a factor in all this." Precautions have been taken by the humans involved in the excavation to be sure the possible disease does not spread beyond the borders of the city. "There has been monkey transmitted diseases in the past, we can't take any chances," Addle said.

Addle went on to say, "One thing we can rule out as a contributing factor for the deaths is lack of food. The populace fed regularly. Journals and diaries found in the town relics indicate that food seemed to appear magically every three days from the sky above. Like 'manna from heaven.'"

Religious leaders are pointing to rumors of incest in the city as a possible explanation for the deaths. Surmising that the habitat may have become a Sea Monkey Sodom and Gomorrah. And thus destroyed by the angered and vengeful Sea Monkey Gods. "This is unlikely," said Addle, though he did concede the phrase "strange flesh" was found in the last op-ed of the local newspaper. "We don't have an explanation for that as of yet."

Pinpointing exactly when the deaths started occurring has been difficult for researchers. What is known is that the population began dying rapidly approximately three weeks ago. One of the first casualties was the Mayor of the city, Lou Hurley. He was elected in January after campaigning on a staunch pro-algae platform. Mayor Hurley was last seen alive rounding the arched rock outcropping on the way to his downtown office.

Before human officials became aware of the epidemic, the Sea Monkeys were already steadily expiring. Evidence suggests that there was some cannibalization occurring in the final days, but this may have been out of desperation.

The last two Sea Monkeys seen alive were Cliff and Helen Thompson, owners of the local delicatessen. With time growing short, and knowing death was imminent, the couple laid down together and died in what researchers are calling a "death embrace."

A solemn funeral was held today for the final residents that were not eaten by their brothers and sisters. The eulogy was delivered by Jane Goodall, following which, "Amazing Grace" was performed by The Sons of Scotland Bagpipe Ensemble. Closing the ceremony was "I'm a Believer" by The Monkees.

Conspiracy theorists have put forth the idea that the Sea Monkey community was involved in a suicidal cult, taking their own lives in order to achieve a "greater good." There has been no credible evidence of this hypothesis.

A Discovery Channel special is being prepared in hopes of uncovering the real reason for the cities demise. It is scheduled to premier in the fall of 2008.