Introduction
The southern right whale breeding season in Brazil, which takes place annually between July and November, is about to begin with uncertainties this year. According to researchers monitoring the arrival of these marine mammals in Santa Catarina, the reproductive cycle of the animals has undergone changes in recent years, making it difficult to predict how this season will be.
Southern Right Whale Reproductive Cycle
The normal reproductive cycle of southern right whales is three years. In the first winter of the cycle, the whales mate, but do not necessarily move to warmer waters. In the second year, the females move away from the cold temperatures and head to the Brazilian coast, where the calves are born away from predators.
After the birth of the calves, the females enter a resting period, which normally lasts one year. During this period, the female recovers to start a new stage. However, according to biologist Karina Groch, director of the ProFranca Project, the resting stage has been extended in recent years, which may be due to the reduction in food availability.
Food Reduction and Climate Oscillations
The reduction in food availability is related to climate oscillations. When the water temperature is warmer, there is less food available, which can cause the whales to take longer to be physically well. This can affect the reproductive cycle of the whales, making it more irregular.
Visits to Santa Catarina
According to the ProFranca Project, 228 southern right whales were found in Santa Catarina in 2022, the highest number in five years. In September 2022, the month with the highest number of sightings, aerial surveys detected around 250 whales, including mothers and calves. However, in previous years, the number of records was lower, which may be an indicator of the reduction in food availability.
Conclusion
The southern right whale breeding season in Santa Catarina is about to begin with uncertainties due to the reduction in food availability. It is essential to continue monitoring the situation and working to protect these animals and their habitat. Additionally, it is important to raise awareness about the importance of conserving southern right whales and the marine environment.
Source / Reference
Original URL: https://g1.globo.com/sc/santa-catarina/noticia/2023/06/15/menor-oferta-de-alimentos-para-baleias-francas-traz-incertezas-sobre-vinda-dos-animais-a-sc-entenda.ghtml