Better data saves marine mammals

            Some marine mammal populations are in major recovery due to successful conservation efforts. Behind these efforts is better data. By filling gaps in our knowledge of marine mammal populations and their movement patterns, scientists are discovering the reality of their situation. Better data makes it easier to create more effective recovery programs.

               Marine mammals are a loose grouping of about 127 species including animals like whales, dolphins and polar bears. According to a report in the Public Library of Science (PLOS) that assessed the recovery of marine mammals, some species that have declined in numbers by as much of 96 per cent have recovered by 25 per cent. Recovery means the population has increased significantly since their decline was recorded. The report highlights the need for enhanced monitoring of marine mammal populations and for collecting more reliable population data so that scientists can make better population trend estimates and create population management programs that are sure to work.

                  As scientists collect more and more data on endangered marine mammal populations, the easier it will be to target what threatens them and monitor their progress towards recovery. We will see more species like the Florida manatee leave the endangered list and once again become thriving populations. The data will also better reflect the effect pollution, climate change, commercial fishing, ship traffic and coastal construction projects have on marine mammal populations and encourage global environmental protection efforts. In the end, accurate data is what will help us solve a variety of environmental issues that threaten the future of our planet.