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A dead sperm whale has washed up on the Canary Island of La Palma. A team of researchers from the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria discovered a valuable substance in the whale: ambergris.
The team had performed an autopsy to investigate the animal’s cause of death. That reports The Guardian. The researchers suspected that the whale had a digestive problem and found a stone weighing more than nine kilograms in its intestines.
Nowadays largely replaced by synthetic fabrics
This lump turned out to be the rare substance ambergris, which is considered one of the most precious fragrances in nature and used to be used in perfume making. Today it is largely replaced by synthetics. True ambergris is now only used in some expensive perfumes, as it serves to fix scents and extend their shelf life.
The substance is believed to be formed when the whale digests squid and octopus. The amber clumps then end up in the sea via vomiting or excretion. However, the clumps can also become too large and lead to the death of the sperm whales.
Also known as “Floating Gold”
The material is also referred to as “floating gold”. Ambergris only occurs in about every 100 whales.
According to the report, the research team hopes to sell the clog and donate the proceeds to the victims of the volcanic eruption on La Palma in 2021. The amber-colored clog found weighs 9.5 kilograms and is worth around 500,000 euros. (no)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
