Watch Deep-Sea Creatures Feed on a Whale That’s Been Dead for Over 20 Years
A dead whale can significantly benefit deep-sea ecosystems, as shown by recent research on a whale that sank near Vancouver Island. Over 15 years, the whale has supported a diverse community of marine life, with researchers noting an increase in species around the carcass. However, climate change poses a threat to these environments, affecting whale populations and marine stability.
- ▪The whale sank 4,920 feet deep and has supported a rich community of deep-sea life for over 15 years.
- ▪Researchers observed an increase in distinct taxa from 29 in 2009 to 31 in 2023 around the whale.
- ▪The sulfophilic stage of decomposition has lasted at least 21 years, with expectations for continued support of marine life for another decade.
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One whale’s unfortunate death can be an entire ecosystem’s blessing, recent research shows. A large international team of marine researchers monitored the seafloor surrounding the corpse of a whale that had sunk 4,920 feet (1,300 meters) deep in the waters near Vancouver Island, Canada. Over a 15-year-long span, and probably longer, the whale sustained a rich community of deep-sea life, they found. The researchers expect that the whale will continue to be an ocean buffet for years to…
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