Scientific publications or official announcements from marine research organizations

World's Rarest Spade-Toothed Whale May Have Washed Up on New Zealand Beach

Jul 15, 2024, 01:01 PM

The spade-toothed whale, considered the world's rarest whale, may have been discovered washed up on a New Zealand beach. This species has never been seen alive, and scientists know very little about it, including its population size, diet, and habitat in the southern Pacific Ocean. Only seven spade-toothed whales have ever been discovered, and none of them alive. The recent discovery could provide critical insights into the elusive species. If confirmed, this would be the first specimen found in a condition suitable for scientific dissection, potentially shedding light on various unknown aspects of the whale.