When someone mentions endangered marine animals people usually think about sea turtles, fish, vaquita, dolphins, or sea lions because they are very popular. But the truth is there are a lot more endangered marine animals than those. I’m going to tell you about and others like beluga whales, Dugong,  Atlantic blue tuna, humphead wrasse, staghorn coral, etc.

Eighth grader Yaneth Sanchez said, “When I think about endangered marine animals I think about turtles with plastic on their fins.“ I understand why she would say this but there is more than just this marine animal that is endangered.  And right now I’m going to tell you about four of them and why they’re endangered. 

Hawaiian Monk Seals

Noaa Fisheries said they are one of the most endangered animals in the world. When catching a disease called toxoplasmosis, more of their species will end. They also get stuck in ropes and suffocate because they can’t breathe. Then on top of that, sharks eat them which is also causing there to be less of their population in Hawaiian seas. 

Sea Otters

Defenders of Wildlife said humans are the biggest threat to them because of shootings, entanglements and boat strikes.  Also climate change has a big impact on sea otters population. Threats from illness and kelp loss are significant to sea otters. 

Orcas

American Oceans said that under the Marine Protection Act, they are completely protected and can be found in all major oceans. These creatures, referred to as the killer whales, are frequently captured and kept as entertainment at marine-themed theme parks like Sea World. Orcas continue to suffer a number of dangers, such as the loss of prey due to climate change. Orcas are still hunted by numerous people for enjoyment, sport, or to catch them for showcase.

Blue whales

Marine Insight said Blue whales are the largest living mammal on Earth. Whales have a significant role in maintaining a healthy marine environment. The global population of the blue whale is 10,000 to 25,000. Excessive commercial hunting has drastically decreased the blue whale population and now the blue whale population is threatened.