Whales play a surprising role in climate change mitigation by fertilizing phytoplankton with their nutrient-rich poop. Phytoplankton absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, and when they die, some of that carbon sinks to the deep ocean where it can stay locked away for centuries. Scientists call this the 'whale pump' a natural nutrient recycling system that boosts ocean productivity and supports marine food webs. A single large whale like a blue whale can store about 30 tons of carbon in its body, which remains trapped on the seafloor when it dies. By contrast, an average tree holds around 1 ton of carbon. The article explains that restoring whale populations could enhance this natural carbon storage process, making ocean health a key part of climate strategy.
