In Video: How whales and their microscopic neighbors help fight fossil fuel pollution
The Unsung Heroes of the Ocean: Humpback Whales in Antarctica
As I gaze out at the icy waters of Antarctica, I’m struck by the eerie silence that surrounds me. It’s not the lack of sound that’s unsettling, but the fact that I’ve never heard anything like it before. The air is thick with the calls of humpback whales, their haunting melodies echoing through the stillness. I try to describe the experience to my fellow researchers, but even I can’t convey the sheer awe that washes over me.
We’re not here to gawk at these majestic creatures, however. We’re scientists from the California Ocean Alliance, on a mission to study the essential role humpback whales play in our ocean’s ecosystem. These gentle giants are often overlooked, but they’re actually our ocean’s engineers, working tirelessly behind the scenes to maintain the delicate balance of the marine food chain.
The Whales’ Vital Role in Carbon Sequestration
One of the most significant contributions humpback whales make is excreting essential nutrients at the surface of the ocean. These nutrients, known as phytolankton, are crucial for photosynthesis and play a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In fact, research suggests that ocean phytolankton pull as much CO2 out of the atmosphere as four Amazon rainforests. Unfortunately, despite this vital service, global CO2 levels continue to skyrocket due to pollution from coal, oil, and gas.
Measuring Whale Health and Stress
To better understand the impact of climate change on these essential creatures, we’re using a range of innovative techniques. Chloe and Lauren, two of our researchers, are using a custom-built drone to monitor the whales’ overall health before they dive for food. By tracking their movements and behavior, we’re gaining valuable insights into the effects of climate change on their well-being.
Biopsies and Health Analysis
When we’re close enough, we collect biopsies from the whales to analyze their health. Our specially designed crossbow fires a dart into the whale’s skin, drawing out a small sample of blubber. Back on the ship, we examine the biopsies under a microscope, searching for signs of stress, disease, or pollution.
The Consequences of Climate Change
Our research reveals a stark reality. Climate change is already having a profound impact on humpback whales, from rapidly melting sea ice to dwindling populations of krill, their primary food source. If we continue to warm the planet, we can expect a catastrophic decline in krill abundance, with far-reaching consequences for entire ecosystems around the world.
The Whales’ Legacy
One of the most remarkable aspects of humpback whales is their extraordinary longevity. Even after their long lives, their bodies continue to sequester carbon dioxide for centuries. When they die, their bodies sink to the ocean floor, creating what we call a "whale fall." This sudden influx of nutrients becomes an oasis for life on the seafloor, fostering an incredible array of marine biodiversity.
A Call to Action
As national climate reporter Chase Kaine, I’m compelled to emphasize the urgent need to protect our oceans and the creatures that call them home. Humpback whales are not just fascinating creatures; they’re a vital component of our planet’s ecosystem. By supporting their health and well-being, we’re ultimately supporting the very future of our planet.
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