Insights from the Dissection of a Rare Whale

Scientists in New Zealand have conducted a dissection of the rare Bahamonde's beaked whale, measuring five meters long and weighing 1.3 tons. This investigation revealed incomplete teeth in the upper jaw, potentially shedding light on the species' evolutionary background.

The whale's nine stomach chambers contained remnants of squid and parasitic worms, indicating its diet. Notably, the whale exhibited head and neck injuries, alongside a broken jaw, which may have contributed to its demise.

Historically, fragments of this species were first identified in 1874, with complete specimens discovered as recently as 2010. The dissection included collaboration with the indigenous Maori community, who regard whales as ancestral beings. The skeleton of this rare creature is set to be displayed at the Tūhura Otago Museum, furthering public awareness and appreciation of marine biodiversity.