06/15/2026
Marine biologists have been observing the progress of the decay of a whale found in 2009 off the coast of Vancouver Island. The 54-foot whale, probably a grey, fell to a 4200-foot depth of inky black, very low-oxygen water. Over the years, remote cameras recorded the happenings on the carcass and found that a progression of creatures took advantage of the nutrients. At first, different fish species ripped away flesh and blubber to expose bone and cartilage. Then crabs, isopods, and worms took over to attack any material left between the bones. Tube worms, clams, and snails then burrowed into the bones, finding nutrients in the marrow. Finally, the bones then became the foundation for bacteria plumes, sponges, and corals. The progression ultimately can become the basis for a permanent reef-like structure. Nothing goes to waste in nature’s economy!
Learn more at: https://www.iflscience.com/in-2009-a-giant-whale-carcass-was-found-on-the-pacific-seabed-and-scientists-watched-what-happened-to-it-over-15-years-83682
