Impact of 700 years of Inuvialuit subsistence hunting on beluga whales.

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Toronto and the University of Copenhagen examined the impact of 700 years of Inuvialuit subsistence hunting on beluga whales. The study utilized paleogenomics, genetic simulations, and stable isotope analysis to assess the effect of centuries of hunting on beluga genetic diversity, population structure, and foraging ecology. The findings indicated that there were no significant changes in genetic diversity or population structure over time, suggesting population continuity. However, the study did reveal shifts in the ratio of harvested females and males, indicating changes in Inuvialuit resource use, and concurrent shifts in the foraging ecology of female and male belugas. The researchers concluded that combining genomic sexing and isotope analysis of zooarchaeological remains can enhance our understanding of past hunting practices and faunal ecologies. [Extracted from the article]