Unearthing the Haunting Truth: Whaling's Devastating Impact on Fin Whales

A new study has found that the genetic diversity of blue and humpback whales has been significantly reduced due to the whaling industry of the 20th century. Researchers compared DNA from whale bones found near abandoned whaling stations on South Georgia Island with DNA from present-day whales in the South Atlantic. The study suggests that these species have lost entire maternal DNA lineages, which contain important cultural memories passed down through generations. While some whale populations are recovering, many are still below pre-whaling numbers. The study highlights the urgency of recording genetic information from elder whales before they die out, as well as the need for continued efforts to protect and conserve whale populations.