The warming of the oceans could also mean diminished reproductive success and increased susceptibility to diseases, according to a Silliman Journal article by Dr. Ma. Louella L. Dolar, a foremost authority on Philippine marine mammals, and Edna S. Sabater, a doctoral candidate at Silliman University. The researchers wrote that the most vulnerable marine mammals are those with limited distributions, such as those found in the rivers, estuaries and coastal areas, many of which are in Southeast Asia. Marine mammals found in Southeast Asia that are already threatened are the Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaellabrevirostris), finless porpoise (Neophocaenaphocaenoides), Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis), and dugong (Dugong dugon). The Irrawaddy are critically endangered.

Acedo, C. E. (2017, April 6). Marine mammals disturbed by warming waters. Manila Bulletin, p. B-8.