Marine biologists have uncovered a multitude of ways whales contribute to the environment, and their research is ongoing as populations are estimated to have decreased by 60-90%. Their decline has affected the ocean ecosystem in many ways, which is why widespread marine education is necessary to help restore their numbers and their positive impact on the environment.

Stabilizing the Aquatic Food Chain

The average humpback whale will eat about 4% of their body weight each day during feeding season. However, they feed much less and sometimes not at all during the breeding season. It may seem like these krill, plankton, and small fish would benefit from not having any whales around to eat them, but a lack of predation would dismantle the aquatic food chain. Without the whales, these prey species would overpopulate and wipe out their own food sources, disrupting the sustainable balance of their ocean.

Ecologists have even determined that whale feces play an important role in the ecosystem: the nutrients in whale excrement contribute to the growth of phytoplankton. In turn, phytoplankton pulls carbon from the atmosphere, resulting in a cleaner and healthier aquatic environment.

Marine Education Leads to Awareness

Whale watching has become a popular excursion among tourists. Because of these tours and more available information on the internet, the expansion of marine education has resulted in a movement to protect these animals. Today, those who participate in whale hunting can face steep fines and even jail time. Protections are also in place to limit the extent of fishing nets, which entangle whales, and pollution.

If you’re interested in learning more about these fascinating creatures on a whale watching or dolphin tour, contact Dolphin Excursions Hawaii. Based on the island of Oahu for over 20 years, they offer a range of exciting excursions, including snorkeling and boat tours, along with expert marine education on the species you’ll encounter. Visit the website to learn more about their tours, and call (808) 239-5579 to reserve your spot today.