Quoc: Following large-scale commercial whaling during the late 19th and 20th centuries, when over 255,000 whales were taken, the sei whale is now internationally protected, although limited hunting occurs under a controversial research program conducted by Japan. As of 2008, its worldwide population was about 80,000, nearly a third of its prewhaling population.

Answer this question based on the passage: what is the population of the sei whale?
HW Chung: OK, some thoughts:
This is the relevant information: As of 2008, its worldwide population was about 80,000, nearly a third of its prewhaling population. The answer is 80,000.