Ocean warming hits humpback whale metabolism and reproduction

A research team from the University of Hawaii at Manoa has published findings showing that marine heat waves interfere with how humpback whales process nutrients and manage reproduction. The study examines how extreme ocean warming disrupts whale metabolism, nutrition, and reproductive success. Scientists are also looking ahead to the developing 2026–2027 El Niño and what it could mean for these whales.

What other ocean species do you think could be affected by similar heat wave disruptions?

#marineheatwaves #humpbackwhales #climatechange #oceanwarming