100 years later, arctic butterflies feel the effects of commercial whaling
Doc White/Nature Picture Library/Alamy
Commercial whaling of bowhead whales ended about a century ago, but the industry’s impact could threaten the future of the species.
Before people sought out their blubber for oil or their baleen for tools and clothing, bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) flourished. This was despite rapid climate change in ancient times, including a warm period from about 8,500 to 10,000 years ago. However, due to whaling, the world’s population of arctic heads had declined to just 3,000 by the early 20th century. Since then, the United States, Canada, and Norway have…
Source: www.newscientist.com
