While it is easy to comprehend the dangers of global warming that animals and humans would face because they live on land, it would be interesting to know what would happen to the animals in the oceans. We tend to think that the waters are far safer than the land. However, the truth is quite the contrary. Many sea animals are at high risk.
Whales and dolphins are at risk because of global warming. Those animals that rely on polar waters, such as belugas, narwhals, and bowhead whales, are likely to be affected by the reduction of sea ice. Less sea ice will allow more commercial shipping, oil, gas, and mining exploration and development, and military activities in previously untouched areas. This will hit nature adversely.
The oceans will absorb more carbon dioxide, and become more acidic. This means there will be more cetacean disease epidemics, and lower reproductive success and survival rates. Climate change could also mean the end of the 300 or so endangered North Atlantic right whales, as it is affecting their food sources. River dolphins will also suffer from loss of habitat.
Picture Credit : Google