Whale feces, the excrement of whales, has a vital role in the ecology of oceans,[2] earning whales the title of "marine ecosystem engineers." This significant ecological role stems from the nutrients and compounds found in whale feces, which have far-reaching effects on marine life.
Nitrogen and iron chelate released by cetacean species offer significant benefits to the marine food chain and contribute to long-term carbon sequestration. Additionally, whale feces contains a wealth of information about the health, natural history, and ecology of individual animals or groups. This source of information includes DNA, hormones, toxins, and various other chemicals. Studying whale feces provides valuable insights into the lives of these marine creatures, aiding scientists in understanding their behaviors, diets, and overall well-being. Furthermore, the nutrients released through whale feces play a vital role in marine ecosystems, supporting phytoplankton growth, enhancing the food chain, and contributing to the overall health of the oceans.
In addition to feces, the digestive system of sperm whales produces ambergris, a solid, waxy, flammable substance of a dull grey or blackish color which can be found floating on the sea or washed up on the coast.[3]
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
PLOSOnewas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ Brown, Joshua E. (12 Oct 2010). "Whale poop pumps up ocean health". Science Daily. Retrieved 18 August 2014.
- ^ "Ambergris". Encyclopaedia Britannica (online). Retrieved 11 April 2019.