Outline threats to Antarctica from fishing and whaling.
- AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 1
Outline threats to Antarctica from fishing and whaling.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline threats to Antarctica from fishing and whaling.
- AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
Threats from Fishing: Overfishing of Krill
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Answer
Fishing activities in the Southern Ocean have led to the overexploitation of krill, which is a crucial food source for many marine species, including whales, seals, and penguins. With krill populations declining, the entire food web is jeopardized, potentially leading to significant ecological imbalances.
Step 2
Threats from Fishing: Disruption of Marine Ecosystems
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Industrial fishing practices can lead to the destruction of habitats, particularly through trawling, which disturbs the seabed and the ecosystems it supports. This disruption can have long-term effects on biodiversity and the overall health of oceanic ecosystems around Antarctica.
Step 3
Threats from Whaling: Endangered Species
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Whaling remains a significant threat to several whale species that are already endangered. The hunting of whales not only reduces their populations but also disrupts marine ecosystems and the balance of oceanic food chains.
Step 4
Threats from Whaling: Scientific Research and Governance
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Some nations continue to conduct whaling under the guise of scientific research, undermining international efforts to conserve whale populations. This practice not only contradicts conservation initiatives but also raises ethical concerns regarding marine wildlife management.