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SIO444: Climate Change Made "the Blob." It Killed Tons of Marine Life
Apr 28, 2024
Join marine biologist Dr. Heidi Pearson as she dives into the alarming loss of marine life due to climate change events like 'the blob.' She discusses recent studies revealing a troubling decline in North Pacific humpback whale populations and the implications of marine heat waves. Dr. Pearson also shares quirky anecdotes, including same-sex interactions among whales and the unique social dynamics of orcas. Listeners are encouraged to connect with and track whale populations, highlighting the importance of conservation in an ever-changing ocean.
37:15
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Quick takeaways
- The recent study highlights how 'the blob' marine heat wave led to significant declines in the humpback whale population and marine ecosystems.
- Observations of homosexual behavior and menopause in whales reveal complex social structures and challenge traditional understandings of animal behaviors.
Deep dives
Impact of Marine Heat Waves on Humpback Whales
A recent study analyzed how climate change, particularly a marine heat wave known as 'the blob,' affected the North Pacific humpback whale population. This heat wave, which occurred from 2014 to 2016, resulted in significant ecological disruptions, leading to declines in fish populations and massive die-offs of marine birds. Researchers observed that the humpback whale population, while recovering since the early 2000s, began to plummet around 2015 due to these changes in the marine ecosystem. The findings highlight the vulnerability of humpback whales to climate fluctuations, emphasizing the importance of monitoring environmental conditions to understand their long-term effects on marine life.
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