The provided bar chart delineates the populations of seals, whales, and dolphins observed in the Gormez Straits over the period from 2006 to 2018.
Overall, the data reveals a notable increase in the populations of seals and dolphins, while the number of whales exhibited relatively stable figures throughout the observed years.
In 2006, the population of seals stood at approximately 27 individuals, surpassing that of whales and dolphins, which recorded figures of 15 and 10, respectively. Notably, by 2010, the seal population experienced a substantial increase to roughly 40, while whales and dolphins also saw growth, reaching 20 and 15 individuals, respectively. In 2014, a decline in seal numbers to about 35 was documented, contrasted by an upsurge in whale populations, which rose to 25, alongside dolphins, which increased to 20. By 2018, the seal population had rebounded to nearly 50, while whale numbers continued to rise to 30. In the same year, dolphins surged dramatically to approximately 55, establishing them as the most populous marine species in the Gormez Straits.
In terms of comparative analysis, seals consistently maintained the highest population figures during the early years of the observation, although dolphins overtook them in 2018. The population of seals exhibited an overall upward trend, increasing from 27 in 2006 to a peak of nearly 50 in 2018. Conversely, whale populations displayed minimal variation, remaining below 30 throughout the twelve-year span, with 15 in 2006 and 30 in 2018, indicating a generally stagnant population. Thus, while seals and dolphins thrived, showcasing a clear increase over the years, whales struggled to achieve significant growth.