Scientists in New Zealand have conducted the first-ever dissection of a spade-toothed whale, a rare species with only six known specimens.

 

 

Scientists in New Zealand have conducted the first-ever dissection of a spade-toothed whale, a rare species with only six known specimens. The 16-foot male whale was found beached in Otago, providing a unique opportunity for scientific study.

 

The dissection revealed that the whale has nine stomach chambers filled with squid remains and parasitic worms. Researchers also discovered vestigial teeth, giving insight into the whale's evolutionary history and its shift from ancestors with functional teeth.

 

This project was a collaboration between Western science and Indigenous knowledge, led by Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou and Ngāti Wai experts. The whale was named Ōnumia to honor the local community’s involvement in the discovery and research.