North Atlantic Right Whales Overview

The North Atlantic right whale is critically endangered, with fewer than 350 individuals remaining. Historically hunted, they now face threats from ship strikes, fishing gear entanglement, and climate change affecting their food supply. With less than 70 breeding females, their population is declining rapidly. Conservationists are working to save them through research and policy changes. The loss of these whales could have significant impacts on the marine ecosystem, as they are indicators of ocean health.

Why were North Atlantic right whales considered the 'right' whales to hunt?

• They were easy to spot due to their size.

• They were abundant in numbers.

• They were the fastest swimmers.

• They floated when killed and had high blubber content.

What is one of the main reasons North Atlantic right whales are on the verge of extinction today?

• Competition with other whale species.

• Pollution in their habitat.

• Entanglement in fishing gear.

• Overfishing of their food source.

What is the primary reason for the decline in the North Atlantic right whale population?

• Natural predators

• Human activities

• Disease outbreaks

• Lack of food

How does climate change affect the North Atlantic right whale's food source?

• It has no effect on zooplankton.

• It causes zooplankton populations to crash.

• It makes zooplankton more nutritious.

• It increases the availability of zooplankton.

What is the current estimated number of breeding females among the North Atlantic right whales?

• Less than 30

• Less than 50

• Less than 100

• Less than 70

What is the typical lifespan of a North Atlantic right whale female in the current environment?

• Over 100 years

• About 45 years

• About 80 years

• About 60 years

Which organization is involved in disentangling North Atlantic right whales?

• World Wildlife Fund

• Marine Conservation Institute

• Greenpeace

• Center for Coastal Studies

What role do North Atlantic right whales play in the marine ecosystem?

• They are scavengers.

• They are primary producers.

• They are apex predators.

• They are indicators of environmental health.

What is the potential consequence of the extinction of North Atlantic right whales?

• More space for other whale species.

• A sign of broader environmental issues.

• Increased fish populations.

• A healthier marine ecosystem.

What is the significance of the North Atlantic right whale being described as an 'aquatic canary in the coal mine'?

• They are the smallest marine mammals.

• They are indicators of ocean health.

• They are the most colorful whales.

• They are the fastest swimmers.