A Rare Discovery in Singaporean Waters

In an extraordinary find, the carcass of a baleen whale has been discovered off the shores of Tanjong Pagar in Singapore. This intriguing event occurred on September 6, and it has since caught the attention of scientists and marine enthusiasts alike.

Museum Steps In for Critical Research

The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is leading the investigation into this rare specimen. Prompted by the National Parks Board, the museum has been diligently studying the carcass since its discovery, revealing the complex beauty of marine life.

Drifting Towards Dangers of Marina Bay

As the whale carcass floated closer to the Marina Bay Cruise Centre by September 12, the museum safeguarded it in collaboration with Singapore Salvage Engineers. Their proactive measures ensured that this valuable specimen would not be lost to the ocean's depths.

Unraveling the Species Mystery

Identified as a rorqual whale belonging to the Balaenoptera genus, this baleen whale measures around 6.3 meters and weighs approximately six tonnes. However, Dr. Marcus Chua, the museum's mammalian curator, has stated that its advanced stage of decomposition makes determining the cause of death a challenging task.

A Decade of Waiting: Historical Significance

This event marks a decade since the museum's last significant whale study. The last whale carcass, a sperm whale dubbed Jubi Lee, was discovered in 2015, marking a milestone as the first documented sighting of the species in Singapore’s waters. Jubi Lee has since become a beloved exhibit of Singapore's natural history.

Remembering Iconic Marine Finds

Historically, the National Museum of Singapore has a rich legacy of marine specimens. In 1907, it displayed the skeleton of a blue whale, stranded near Melaka in 1892. Such discoveries are vital for understanding marine biodiversity and the health of our oceans.

What Comes Next?

As the museum continues its study of this baleen whale carcass, it aims to uncover vital information about the species and its role in the marine ecosystem. Each finding contributes to our growing understanding of these majestic creatures and the environmental challenges they face.