In 2019, the world of science realized that there are more than ten species of whales in the world. Researchers identified the whale, the Sato’s Beaked Whale, or Berradius minimus, from its carcass that washed ashore. After examining the body of the beached whale, the researchers confirmed that it is a special species.
Whales returned alive
Meanwhile, researchers have now been able to see this species alive for the first time. The researchers found them near the island near Japan. This group of whales appeared in the middle of the Kuril Islands in Japan, Hokkaido, and Russia. At first sight, not one, but 14 satos beaked whales appeared before the researchers.
There were 14 whales in this group. Therefore, this discovery became a lottery for the researchers. Sato’s Beakeds were discovered by chance by a research team that came to observe orca, or killer whales. They are now being described as the London Double Ducker Bus among whales. This is not because of the size, but because of the fact that it reaches zero and returns once more like a double-decker bus.
A whale like a knitting needle
These whales are up to 7 meters long, but their body fat and weight is relatively low. Researchers compare their body structure to orcas. They resemble the shape of a spindle or knitting needle. The head is rounded at the end and the body is laterally slender. Therefore, the researchers gave them a name called Spindle Whale.
This shape of their body is the reason why these whales have been hidden from the attention of the scientific world for so long. They also lack the whistling program that all other whales have. Because of this, they were able to remain hidden even when they reached the surface of the sea. And being much darker in color, they cannot be identified in the ocean unless up close.
Karasu of the Japanese
They have another name in Japanese because of their color. The crow is behind this nickname Karasu. Karasu means crow. The Japanese called them karasu following the raven-colored whale in the sea. Researchers found three different groups of ‘karasu’ off the coast of Japan over the course of six days. All three groups of whales consisted of four to five members.
Researchers have collected skin fragments from these creatures using ultra-thin crossbows and underwater spears. After testing this, it was confirmed that the creatures found were members of a new species identified in 2019. However, researchers say this discovery is just the beginning. The research world does not know anything regarding their lifestyles, travel routes or living areas except that they know that there is a new species. Therefore, more studies are needed on these. But finding these once more will be a challenge for more researchers.
English Summary: First Ever Confirmed Sighting Of Living Sato’s Beaked Whale Made Near Japan