Abstract
Arctic marine mammals range widely, serve as biological indicators, occupy areas rich in natural resources, and are an important subsistence resource. Eleven species of Arctic marine mammals are highly associated with, or dependent on, sea ice for key aspects of their life history including foraging, reproduction, and movement. Approximately 24 other species forage in the Arctic seasonally. Climate change is the primary threat to Arctic marine mammals although its effects are expected to vary in time, space, and among species. For example, loss of sea ice may reduce foraging habitat for polar bears or breeding habitat for pinnipeds, but may also increase access to foraging areas for some cetaceans. Sea ice dynamics in the Arctic influence energy fluxes, biological production, and ultimately the survival of species at higher trophic levels, yet many ecological consequences of continued sea ice loss remain unclear. Other conservation challenges for Arctic marine mammals include increasing resource extraction, shipping, and human development.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
