Narwhal — Arctic Marine Mammal, Tusk & Climate Change


Scientific Name

Monodon monoceros

Key Features

  • Marine mammal.

  • Lives mainly in the Arctic Ocean.

  • Famous for its long tusk.

  • The tusk is actually a modified upper canine tooth, usually in males.

  • Feeds mainly on fish, squid and other marine organisms.

Ecological Significance

Narwhals are highly adapted to Arctic sea-ice conditions.

Threats

  • Climate change.

  • Loss of sea ice.

  • Shipping activity.

  • Noise pollution.

  • Changes in prey availability.

  • Pollution.

UPSC Link

Arctic warming → sea-ice decline → changes in marine ecosystems → impact on Arctic species.