Home

/

News & Stories

/

Pet News

Melting Ice Brings Killer Whales to Arctic, Shaking Ecosystems

author

Rithani

Follow

4 min read

04 Jan, 2025

7 Shares

2 Likes

Stories-img

As sea ice melts due to climate change, killer whales are moving into Arctic waters and extending their range.


Canadian scientists have discovered two genetically different populations of killer whales in this region.


However, according to their study, it would have "grave repercussions" for native Arctic whales like bowheads, narwhals, and belugas. As they are a slow-moving species.


The situation is complicated because, while Arctic orcas are worthy of conservation concern, they also have the capacity to disrupt ecosystems as apex predators.


Image source: Unsplash


The study found that beluga whales and narwhals are the primary prey of killer whales in the eastern Canadian Arctic, with bowhead whales and seals coming in second and third.


The Arctic is the world's fastest-warming region, according to the study, and it's ice melts, its waters are becoming more accessible to animals that are typically found in the sub-Arctic, like killer whales.


Because killer whales face the risk of shattering their renowned dorsal fins on ice, they were formerly assumed to be uncommon Arctic visits. However, sightings have increased in frequency.


Image source: Unsplash


Tissue samples were taken from the orcas, and the researchers were surprised that there are actually two highly distinct populations.


One group is described as “globally genetically distinct” while the other is compared to “Greenland killer whales’’.


The two groups do not recognize one another as possible mates because of their dissimilar feeding habits and vocalizations.


This is also causing concern to the indigenous people in the northern regions as they are worried about killer whales encroaching on and consuming food that is "crucial" to their communities.


This situation in the Arctic highlights how climate change is disrupting ecosystems and posing a threat to the survival of native species and indigenous communities.

Must readPet Stories
The History of Pets: From Ancient Times to Modern-Day Companions

The History of Pets: From Ancient Times to Modern-Day Companions

03 Sep 2024

Keep Your Cat Happy This Janmashtami: Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Festival

Keep Your Cat Happy This Janmashtami: Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Festival

26 Aug 2024

Purr-fect Dreams: A comprehensive understanding of why Your Cat Sleeps More Than You Do.
CATS

STORIES

Purr-fect Dreams: A comprehensive understanding of why Your Cat Sleeps More Than You Do.

13 May 2024

Top 10 Best Dog Food Brands in India That Fit Your Canine Needs & Budget
PET FOOD

STORIES

Top 10 Best Dog Food Brands in India That Fit Your Canine Needs & Budget

23 Mar 2024

For your daily dose of happiness, follow us on

vectorvectorvector

Stay updated with the pet industry

Subscribe Now

Download our pet-parent app

dog
dog

© Excitado Innovations Pvt Ltd