Atlantic Walrus: Multidisciplinary Insights into Human-Animal Interactions

The Atlantic Walrus: Multidisciplinary insights into human-animal interactions explores the long-term human-walrus interactions across the Atlantic Arctic and subarctic regions, reconstructing the early evolution, biology, cultural significance, ecological impact, management strategies, and future of the iconic Arctic species in the face of climate change and increased human activities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 18 June 2021
Publisher: Elsevier Science Publishing Co Inc

The Atlantic Walrus: Multidisciplinary Insights into Human-Animal Interactions delves into the profound dimensions of long-term human-walrus interactions across the Atlantic Arctic and subarctic regions, spanning centuries. This comprehensive book brings together research from diverse social and natural sciences to explore the intricate aspects of walrus biology, human culture, environmental conditions, and their reciprocal impacts. Spanning 13 chapters, this volume reconstructs the early evolution of walruses, delves into their biology, examines the cultural significance and ecological impact of prehistoric and indigenous hunting practices, explores the consequences of commercial hunting and international trade, and assesses historic and ongoing management strategies. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of new research methodologies in uncovering hitherto unknown details of the past. Ultimately, the book concludes by discussing the future of Atlantic walruses in the face of climate change and increased human activities in the Arctic.

This volume serves as an invaluable resource for individuals and researchers seeking to comprehend the iconic Arctic species and its intricate and enduring relationship with humans. It encompasses a wide range of stakeholders, including marine biologists, zoologists, conservationists, paleontologists, archaeologists, anthropologists, historians, indigenous communities, natural resource managers, and government agencies. By unraveling the complexities of human-walrus interactions, this book contributes to our understanding of the Arctic ecosystem, promotes sustainable management practices, and fosters dialogue between different communities and disciplines.

Introduction:
The Atlantic Walrus (Odobenus rosmarus rosmarus) is a majestic marine mammal that plays a crucial role in the Arctic ecosystem. Its distribution spans across the North Atlantic Ocean, from the Barents Sea in the Arctic to the Gulf of St. Lawrence in the North Atlantic. The walrus has a long and complex history of interactions with humans, dating back thousands of years. This book aims to provide a multidisciplinary perspective on human-walrus interactions, encompassing various aspects such as biology, culture, environmental conditions, and management strategies.

Chapter 1:
The first chapter delves into the early evolution of walruses, shedding light on their genetic makeup, population dynamics, and historical distribution. It explores the factors that have influenced the evolution of walrus populations and their adaptations to the Arctic environment. The chapter also discusses the role of walruses in the ancient Arctic hunter-gatherer societies and their cultural significance.

Chapter 2:
Chapter 2 focuses on walrus biology, covering topics such as their diet, reproductive behavior, and social structure. It explores the ecological importance of walruses in the Arctic ecosystem, including their role in nutrient cycling and their impact on marine biodiversity. The chapter also discusses the challenges faced by walruses in the modern era, such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.

Chapter 3:
Chapter 3 examines the cultural significance and ecological impact of prehistoric and indigenous hunting practices. It explores the traditional hunting techniques and rituals of various Arctic communities and their relationship with walruses. The chapter also discusses the historical and contemporary challenges faced by indigenous communities in managing walrus populations and preserving their cultural heritage.

Chapter 4:
Chapter 4 explores the effects of commercial hunting and international trade on walrus populations. It discusses the history of commercial hunting, including the impact of hunting on walrus populations and the economic and social consequences for local communities. The chapter also examines the legal and regulatory frameworks that have been put in place to protect walruses and the challenges of enforcing these regulations.

Chapter 5:
Chapter 5 examines historic and ongoing management strategies for walrus conservation. It discusses the various management approaches adopted by different countries and organizations, including habitat protection, population monitoring, and hunting regulations. The chapter also highlights the importance of public education and awareness campaigns in promoting walrus conservation.

Chapter 6:
Chapter 6 discusses the importance of new research methodologies in revealing hitherto unknown details of the past. It explores the use of advanced technologies, such as DNA analysis, satellite imagery, and remote sensing, to study walrus populations and their interactions with the environment. The chapter also discusses the challenges and limitations of these methodologies and the potential for future research.

Chapter 7:
Chapter 7 examines the future for Atlantic walruses in the face of climate change and increased human activities in the Arctic. It discusses the potential impacts of climate change on walrus habitat, food availability, and reproductive success. The chapter also explores the challenges and opportunities for sustainable development in the Arctic region, including the role of indigenous communities in conservation efforts.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, The Atlantic Walrus: Multidisciplinary Insights into Human-Animal Interactions provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of human-walrus interactions across the Atlantic Arctic and subarctic regions. By bringing together research from diverse social and natural sciences, this book sheds light on the complex dynamics between humans and walruses, highlighting the cultural significance, ecological impact, and management challenges associated with these interactions. The volume serves as an invaluable resource for researchers, policymakers, and conservationists seeking to promote sustainable development and protect the iconic Atlantic walrus for generations to come.

Weight: 734g
Dimension: 193 x 231 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780128174302