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The Blob
Context:
A recent study has revealed that a massive marine heat wave, known as “The Blob,” caused the deaths of approximately 4 million seabirds, specifically common murres, in the Gulf of Alaska and the eastern Bering Sea between 2014 and 2016.
More on News:
- This event is considered the largest documented wildlife mortality event in the modern era.
- Researchers from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducted a comprehensive study to estimate the full impact of the heat wave on the murre population.
The Blob: An Unprecedented Heat Wave
- It refers to an extreme marine heat wave that occurred in the northeast Pacific Ocean between 2014 and 2016. This unprecedented event had far-reaching ecological impacts, particularly on marine wildlife.
- Duration and Temperature Increase: The Blob lasted for almost two years, during which ocean temperatures soared by approximately 7°F (4°C).
Key Events and Impacts:
- Impact on Seabirds: The temperature rise disrupted the marine ecosystem, leading to a significant decline in phytoplankton populations.
- This, in turn, affected the forage fish that rely on phytoplankton, causing a cascading effect on the food web.
- As a result, many seabirds starved to death during this period. Approximately 62,000 common murres washed up on beaches along the U.S. and Canadian Pacific coastlines, including Alaska’s Pigot Bay.
- This, in turn, affected the forage fish that rely on phytoplankton, causing a cascading effect on the food web.
- Other Wildlife Affected: The heat wave also impacted other marine species, including snow crabs and Pacific cod, leading to significant population declines.
Long-Term Consequences:
- Population Recovery: Despite the passage of several years, the common murre population has not yet recovered to its pre-Blob levels.
- Ecosystem Changes: The Blob has led to lasting changes in the marine ecosystem, with some species struggling to adapt to the altered conditions.
- The loss of biodiversity and changes in species distribution are ongoing concerns for scientists and conservationists.
