Age at Sexual Maturity Influences Sei Whale Population Recovery

Sei whales do not reproduce quickly, slowing the rebound from past exploitation.

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Many baleen whale species share similarly slow reproductive cycles, contributing to prolonged recovery timelines.

Female Balaenoptera borealis typically reach sexual maturity between 6 and 10 years of age, a relatively long developmental period for marine mammals.

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Delayed maturity combined with multi-year calving intervals means population growth rates remain modest even under full legal protection.

This life history strategy reflects a balance between large body size, longevity, and reproductive investment in a single calf at a time.

Source

International Whaling Commission

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