There has been a significant amount of talk over the past several years regarding global warming and the melting of arctic pack ice.
Bowhead whales of the Pacific and the Arctic were thought to be separated by the pack ice. When scientists looked at the genetics of each population, it was shown that they were closely related. Scientists were concerned that the loss of pack ice may have lessened the diversity among
bowhead whale populations. In order to determine if this were true, the genetics of ancient bowhead whales was compared to the genetics of modern bowhead whales. It was found that ancient bowhead whales also showed the same relatedness. In fact, it seems that they may all be part of the same family. Researchers theorize that whaling may have made a large enough impact on bowhead whale populations to limit the gene pool.
It is unfortunate that whaling could have made such a significant impact on bowhead whales. What is worse is that some native villages in Alaska are still allowed to hunt for them.
Subsistence is completely understandable, however, when it comes to situations like these and endangered species, rules and regulations need to be more strict. Furthermore, it is inevitable that this article will fuel those who believe global warming to be a farse, and may use it as evidence to prove that melting pack ice may not be as terrible as some believe it to be.
This is a great article. I understand if its locals getting food for their village, its the fisheries that over fishing an area is and a species that should be reprimanded. People should have more compassion for life.
ReplyDeleteAlso what did you mean by "I do understand if its locals getting food for their village"? Wouldn't separate families of whales getting together cause more diversity?
Very well put, there is much that needs to be done on this planet to save and protect the Arctic bowhead whale. They are one of the most amazing animals I have had the opportunity to spend time with. Hopefully we humans will come to their aid and protect them from the threat of increased shipping and possible oil spills on both sides of the Arctic Ocean. I have posted a four-part series about my time with Arctic bowhead whales at: http://frametoframe.ca/destinations/arctic-expedition/photo-essay-search-arctic-bowhead-whales
ReplyDeleteThis raises a very interesting point: how serious is global warming? I am personally convinced that, although it is partially natural, global warming will still have very detrimental effects on our Arctic ecosystems. I recently posted about the effect of global warming on polar bears and am very concerned about the future survival of both the polar bear and the bowhead whale.
ReplyDeleteBob Hilscher - Your photos are incredible! Looks like you had an amazing time!