Publication Name

Caspian seals fight for survival

The Caspian seal (

Phoca caspica

) population has

decreased dramatically in recent years. Several fac-

tors have contributed to this alarming trend. A virus

killed large numbers of seals. Although no direct

link has been proved between the virus and environ-

mental pollution, it may be assumed that the high

concentrations of DDT and heavy metals measured

in the seals weakened the animals’ natural resist-

ance. Moreover kilka, the seals’ main source of nu-

trition, have been decimated by the comb jelly, fur-

ther aggravating the seals’ predicament. Intensive

navigation, poaching with the pretence of scien-

tific research, fluctuations in sea level and climatic

changes are also contributing to the drop in the seal

population and threatening their survival. Higher

winter temperatures, possibly related to changes in

global climate observed in recent years, have caused

thinner ice coverage and restricted the traditional

reproduction grounds in the shallow waters of the

northern Caspian. Recent research by the Caspian

Environment Programme estimates the number of

living seals to be as low as 110,000. A further re-

duction in ice cover could well be one of the major

threats facing the Caspian seal in the future.

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