Unusual multisystemic pathology in a sperm whale bull

Area of Science:

• Marine Mammal Health
• Sperm Whale Ecology
• Pathology in Cetaceans

Background:

• Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) face various ecological and health challenges.
• Investigating disease complexes in marine mammals is crucial for understanding population health.
• This study examines a specific case of multiple pathologies in a wild sperm whale.

Observation:

• A sexually mature male sperm whale displayed severe combative scarring, skin abnormalities, and genital papillomatosis.
• Internal examination revealed partial duodenal obstruction by plastic debris and colo-rectal obstruction by ambergris.
• The whale also had cystic kidney degeneration, ulcerative gastric nematodiasis, and ingested sealskin.

Findings:

• The observed disease complex suggests a multifactorial etiology.
• Plastic debris and ambergris contributed to significant gastrointestinal obstructions.
• Parasitic infection (gastric nematodiasis) and kidney degeneration were also noted.

Implications:

• Habitat degradation may exacerbate health risks for sperm whales.
• Ingestion of anthropogenic debris poses a direct threat to marine megafauna.
• This case highlights the complex interplay between environmental factors, ecological risks, and individual animal health.