Whaling wiped out far more fin whales than previously thought

UCLA study shows a 99% population reduction in the 20th century, but genetic diversity remains high Science + Technology UCLA study shows a 99% population reduction in the 20th century, but genetic diversity remains high October 12, 2023 Key takeaways. Whaling in the 20th century destroyed 99% of the Eastern North Pacific fin whale breeding population. Because there is enough genetic diversity, current conservation measures should help the population rebound without becoming inbred. The future of fin whales in the Gulf of California depends on the recovery of the Eastern North Pacific population. A new genomic study by UCLA biologists shows that whaling in the 20th century destroyed 99% of the Eastern North Pacific fin whale breeding, or "effective," population — 29% more than previously thought. But there is also some good news: Genes among members of this endangered species are still diverse enough that current conservation measures should be be enough to help the population rebound without becoming inbred. The study also found that the health of this group is essential for the survival of highly isolated, genetically distinct fin whales in the Gulf of California.