Climate change is dramatically affecting two more species

Climate change threatens all species living on planet Earth, some less, some more. The effects of climate change increasingly endanger whales and dolphins, according to a report published to coincide with the 28th UN Climate Change Conference. In the "Whales in Hot Water" report, the Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) warns that ocean warming has a dramatic impact on a large number of species, as their habitats change so rapidly that animals begin to compete or even fight with each other. Rising temperatures have led to an amplification of algae proliferation releasing toxins. These toxins have been increasingly found in the bodies of dead cetaceans, according to WDC. Moreover, the toxins can slow down the animals' reactions, making them more susceptible to greater risks, such as collisions with ships. "Mass mortality is most likely caused by an algae bloom," the organization stated. According to the report, at least 343 whales died in Chile in 2015, with extremely high concentrations of paralytic toxins detected in over two-thirds of them. The decline in krill, one of the most important food sources for whales, is also a problem, according to WDC. The quantity of krill is depleting due to industrial fishing and higher marine temperatures. Due to the lack of food, marine mammals can store less fat and do not have enough energy for their seasonal migration. Additionally, it has been observed that numerous marine mammals no longer migrate to warmer waters to mate. The result: fewer young animals. The report also urges governments and the industry to ban destructive fishing practices and calls for catch restrictions and fishing gear that reduces the number of accidental captures.