Source: Scientific American
A 16-foot spade-toothed whale, one of Earth’s rarest marine mammals, recently washed ashore in New Zealand’s Otago region, allowing scientists a rare opportunity to study this elusive species. First identified in 1874, the spade-toothed whale has never been seen alive, with only six documented specimens until now. Emma Carroll, a molecular ecologist, called the find a “once-in-a-lifetime event.”
The whale was preserved and transported for potential scientific analysis, with local Māori people involved due to the whale’s cultural significance. A complete anatomical description could be created for the first time, offering insights into the whale’s physiology, diet, and population size. The species’ preference for deep, remote waters likely explains the lack of live sightings. Genetic analysis could reveal more about the whale’s diet and ecological role. This discovery underscores the need for understanding deep-sea ecosystems before engaging in potentially harmful activities like deep-sea mining.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/rare-whale-beached-in-new-zealand-offers-glimpse-of-little-known-species/