Thesis Abstract

The abstract for the thesis on "Investigating the Impact of Climate Change on Marine Mammal Populations" is as follows Climate change is a critical global issue that has significant impacts on various ecosystems, including marine environments. Marine mammals are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change due to their reliance on oceanic ecosystems for survival. This thesis aims to investigate the impact of climate change on marine mammal populations, focusing on understanding how changing environmental conditions are influencing the abundance, distribution, and behavior of these species. The study will begin with a comprehensive review of the existing literature on climate change and its effects on marine mammals. This review will provide a theoretical framework for understanding the potential mechanisms through which climate change can impact marine mammal populations. By synthesizing the current knowledge in this field, the study will identify gaps in the literature and highlight areas for further research. The research methodology will involve a combination of field studies, data analysis, and modeling approaches to assess the impact of climate change on marine mammal populations. Field studies will include surveys of marine mammal populations in different regions to document changes in abundance and distribution over time. Data analysis will involve the examination of long-term datasets on environmental variables and marine mammal populations to identify correlations and trends. Modeling approaches will be used to predict future scenarios of climate change and assess the potential implications for marine mammal populations. The findings of the study will be presented and discussed in detail in the fourth chapter of the thesis. The results will highlight the specific ways in which climate change is impacting marine mammal populations, including changes in habitat availability, food availability, and competition with other species. The implications of these findings for the conservation and management of marine mammal populations will be discussed, with a focus on identifying potential strategies for mitigating the negative effects of climate change. In conclusion, this thesis will provide valuable insights into the impact of climate change on marine mammal populations and contribute to the growing body of knowledge on this important topic. By understanding how climate change is affecting marine mammal populations, we can better inform conservation efforts and develop effective strategies for protecting these iconic species in a changing world.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Investigating the Impact of Climate Change on Marine Mammal Populations" aims to explore the significant effects of climate change on marine mammal populations. Climate change is a pressing global issue that has far-reaching consequences on various ecosystems, including marine environments. Marine mammals, such as whales, dolphins, seals, and manatees, are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change due to their reliance on specific habitats and food sources. The research overview will delve into the various ways in which climate change can affect marine mammal populations. This includes changes in sea temperature, sea level rise, ocean acidification, and alterations in marine food webs. These environmental changes can disrupt the natural behaviors, distribution, and breeding patterns of marine mammals, leading to population declines and shifts in species composition. Furthermore, the research will investigate the specific mechanisms through which climate change influences marine mammal populations. This may involve studying the physiological responses of marine mammals to changing environmental conditions, such as stress levels, reproductive success, and overall health. Additionally, the project will examine the interactions between marine mammals and their changing habitats to understand how these species adapt or struggle in the face of climate-related challenges. The research overview will also highlight the importance of studying the impact of climate change on marine mammal populations from a conservation perspective. By gaining a better understanding of how climate change affects these iconic species, conservation efforts can be targeted towards mitigating the negative consequences and promoting the resilience of marine mammal populations. This research is essential for informing policy decisions, management strategies, and conservation actions aimed at protecting marine mammal populations in the face of ongoing climate change. In summary, the project "Investigating the Impact of Climate Change on Marine Mammal Populations" seeks to contribute valuable insights into the complex relationship between climate change and marine mammal populations. By elucidating the mechanisms and consequences of this interaction, the research aims to support conservation efforts and enhance our ability to safeguard these important marine species in a changing world.