In what ways have members of the gray whale species been affected by efforts to protect biodiversity? Check all that apply.

Question

They are currently endangered and almost extinct.
Their numbers have increased because of the Endangered Species Act.
Their numbers have increased mostly due to captive breeding.
They are still being hunted, and their numbers are declining.
They are an example of protecting biodiversity through the passage of laws.

Answer 1

The following options apply regarding the effects of efforts to protect biodiversity on gray whales:

• Their numbers have increased because of the Endangered Species Act.
• They are an example of protecting biodiversity through the passage of laws.

The other options are not accurate in the context of gray whales:

• They are currently endangered and almost extinct. (Gray whales are not currently considered endangered; they have seen population recovery.)
• Their numbers have increased mostly due to captive breeding. (Gray whales have not been significantly impacted by captive breeding, as they typically do not breed well in captivity.)
• They are still being hunted, and their numbers are declining. (While some whaling still occurs, the overall population has increased and is not in decline.)