In a groundbreaking event, a spade-toothed whale, believed to be the world’s rarest whale species, is being dissected in New Zealand. The five-meter long male whale washed ashore in Otago, prompting excitement from scientists who have only been able to study the species through bones and tissues found in rare specimens.
This marks the first-ever examination of a complete spade-toothed whale specimen, with only seven documented since the 1800s. The whale was found in the South Island, and international and local scientists, along with local Māori, have gathered to study the animal at the Invermay Agresearch Centre in Mosgiel.
Lead scientist Anton van Helden described the atmosphere as one of reverence for the rare creature, highlighting the opportunity to learn more about the life and behaviors of this elusive species. The examination will focus on various aspects of the whale’s anatomy and behavior, shedding light on how it lived and potentially informing conservation efforts.
Scientists are particularly interested in understanding the stomach layout, sound creation capabilities, vertebrae count, blubber weight, and throat structure of the whale. The findings from this examination could help in managing human threats to the species.
Local Māori from Ōtākou, who have customary rights over the area where the whale washed up, have been closely involved in the process. Recognizing the cultural significance of whales as taonga, sacred treasures, the Māori community will offer their Indigenous knowledge to collaborate with Western science in studying this unique species.
When the dissection is complete, the Ōtākou Māori will donate the whale’s skeleton to the Otago Museum while keeping the jawbone for cultural purposes. The examination is expected to take five days, offering a rare opportunity to unravel the mysteries surrounding one of the ocean’s most enigmatic creatures.
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