- Scientists have estimated that the number of Emperor Penguins in the Antarctica may reduce due 1/3rd due to global warming.
- Global warming is melting the sea ice where in lives the sea algae that the krill feed on. These krills serve as food for the fish which are in turn preyed upon by the Emperor Penguins.
- Although in the short term global warming may increase the penguin population, by 2100 all 45 known Emperor Penguin colonies will be on decline with the ones on the coast of the eastern Weddell Sea and the western Indian Ocean facing the highest threat.
- 9 colonies are projected to be quasi-extinct.
- To protect these penguins scientists have recommended:
- Protecting Emperor Penguins under Endangered Species.
- Creating marine reserves to buffer the fish stocks needed for the penguins to survive.
- Some emperor penguin colonies might be able to move location making them better adapted to the changes in ice condition.
- Read at: http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-opinion/emperor-penguins-are-facing-extinction/article6164880.ece
Exams Perspective:
- What is quasi extinction?