What is a likely consequence of reduced krill population for penguins?

The consequence of a reduced krill population is that it leads to lower penguin survival rates. Krill is a primary food source for many species of penguins, particularly those living in polar regions. When the krill population declines, it becomes more difficult for penguins to find enough food to sustain themselves and their chicks.

Inadequate food supply directly impacts breeding and chick survival. Insufficient energy reserves can lead to lower reproductive success, as adult penguins may struggle to find enough food to support both themselves and their young. Consequently, fewer chicks may survive to maturity, leading to a decline in penguin populations over time.

The connection between krill availability and penguin survival is critical, as a significant part of the penguin diet consists of these small crustaceans. If the krill populations are affected by changing oceanic conditions, such as temperature and acidity, the repercussions on the penguin population can be severe.