Question

Why may there still be a decline in otter populations, even though they have been protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973?

A) Pollution in water sources
B) Lack of suitable habitats
C) Climate change
D) All of the above

Answer 1

Otter populations may decline despite protection due to pollution, habitat loss, and climate change, all of which contribute to environmental changes that challenge their survival.

Step-by-step explanation:

The decline in otter populations, even though they have been protected by regulations such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973, can be attributed to D) All of the above, which includes:

• Pollution in water sources that adds harmful chemicals, heat, and noise to environments.
• Lack of suitable habitats due to habitat destruction, such as damming rivers, and altering land for human development.
• Climate change, which is causing shifts in ecosystems, rising sea levels, and changes in availability of fresh water versus salt water.

These factors not only affect otters but a wide range of biodiversity, often exacerbating one another leading to a compounded effect on species.