The bar chart compares the populations of seals, whales, and dolphins in the Gormez Straits over a twelve-year period, from 2006 to 2018, at four-year intervals.
Overall, while the populations of all three marine species fluctuated during the given period, dolphins experienced a dramatic and consistent increase, ultimately surpassing both seals and whales by 2018. Seals, which initially had the largest population, underwent a decline before recovering steadily, whereas whale numbers remained relatively stable with minor variations.
In 2006, seals had the highest recorded population, at around 43 individuals, significantly outnumbering whales and dolphins, which stood at approximately 24 and 17 respectively. However, by 2010, seal numbers had dropped sharply to roughly 25, equalling the whale population, while dolphins showed a modest rise to just over 20.
The following four years saw a reversal in trends: seals rebounded to about 35, and dolphins climbed rapidly to around 33. Meanwhile, the whale population declined slightly, falling to just over 22. By 2018, dolphin numbers had surged dramatically to approximately 52, becoming the most populous species. Seals continued their recovery, reaching around 45, whereas whales exhibited a marginal increase to nearly 28.
In summary, the most notable trend is the exponential growth in the dolphin population, in stark contrast to the more erratic patterns seen in seal and whale numbers. This suggests a possible shift in ecological conditions or conservation outcomes favouring dolphins in the Gormez Strait.