Do Harp Seal populations effect Atlantic cod?

  • Thread starter LadiesMan
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Seal
In summary, the collapse in Atlantic cod stocks can be attributed to overfishing, harp seals, or a combination of the two. The harp seal population can be reduced to help the cod population recover, but it is unclear whether this would be effective. There are ways to study changes to the cod population to determine whether the reduction of the harp seal population would be an effective solution.
  • #1
LadiesMan
96
0
[SOLVED] Do Harp Seal populations effect Atlantic cod?

The Atlantic cod population was an extremely abundant stock of primary economic importance to fishing communities throughout the Atlantic provinces. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has stated that the collapse in Atlantic cod stocks can be attributed to overfishing. Others claim that the use of equipment that disturbs fish spawning sites on the ocean floor is primarily responsible, and still others argue that the harp seal, a predator of Atlantic cod, is responsible for this mass reduction in the cod population. One suggestion to help cod stocks recover is for large numbers of harp seals to be killed. Suggest some ways that marine biologists might study changes to the Atlantic cod population to determine whether the reduction of the harp seal population would be an effective solution.

I searched up some stuff such as SEZ (Seal exclusion zone). But how do we determine whether the reduction of harp populations would effect the populations? But methods of mark-recapture?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Good question!
 
  • #3
@above, Jerk! Haha just kidding!

There we go!

You could estimate population size for the cod and compare it to the population size of seals and to the fishing effort. Track these three variables over several years, and get some historical data as well. Theoretically, the fishing effort should be the same each year (likely governed by permitting or catch regulations) - but if fishing effort increases or decreases, look for a related change in cod populations. If cod population size is related to seal populations, an increase in seals should result in a subsequent decrease in cod populations, and visa versa. You could also measure cod demographics, like population age structure to get at the spawning habitat question. If there are relatively few young of the year cod, it would indicate a disruption in spawning. But, if there are many young cod, but few older individuals, it would indicate too many adults are being removed (either by fishing or the seals). A fish population should be dominated by young individuals with relatively old ones. Check and see the life expectancy of cod to determine what you should see in an undisturbed population.

Make sure you use your own words ;)
 

1. How do Harp Seal populations affect Atlantic cod?

Harp Seal populations are known to feed on Atlantic cod, so an increase in Harp Seal populations can lead to a decrease in Atlantic cod populations. This is because the seals will consume more cod, reducing their numbers in the wild. Additionally, the seals can also compete with cod for prey, further impacting the cod population.

2. Is there a direct correlation between Harp Seal and Atlantic cod populations?

While there is evidence that Harp Seal populations can impact Atlantic cod populations, there is not a direct correlation. Other factors such as fishing, climate change, and ecosystem changes can also play a role in the fluctuations of Atlantic cod populations.

3. How significant is the impact of Harp Seal populations on Atlantic cod populations?

The impact of Harp Seal populations on Atlantic cod populations can vary depending on the specific location and time period. In some areas, the impact may be more significant due to higher concentrations of seals and cod, while in other areas the impact may be minimal. It is important to consider all factors when studying this relationship.

4. Can the decline of Atlantic cod populations be attributed solely to Harp Seal populations?

No, the decline of Atlantic cod populations cannot be solely attributed to Harp Seal populations. As mentioned before, there are other factors at play such as fishing, climate change, and ecosystem changes. It is important to consider all of these factors in order to fully understand the decline of Atlantic cod populations.

5. What can be done to mitigate the impact of Harp Seal populations on Atlantic cod populations?

There are a few potential solutions that could help mitigate the impact of Harp Seal populations on Atlantic cod populations. One option is to manage Harp Seal populations through culling or relocation. Another option is to implement regulations on fishing practices to help maintain a healthy balance between the two species. It is also important to continue monitoring and researching this relationship to better understand how to protect both species in the long term.

Similar threads

Small Fish Turns Tables on Larger Predators
    • Biology and Medical
Replies
2
Views
762

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top