Outrage among experts over what was discovered in a whale’s stomach: “A tragic event”

Researchers at the Kanahay Utila Research and Conservation Center in Honduras witnessed another victim of marine plastic pollution – a pygmy sperm whale struggling for its life in the waters near Utila, about 20 miles off the Honduran coast.

Whale dies from swallowing plastic

The animal’s movements were far from typical for its species, repeatedly beaching itself near the shore – a clear sign of distress, according to Phys.org. Scientists from the Utila center, who had noticed the whale’s unusual behavior, rushed to help, but their efforts came too late.

Despite their attempts, the whale died later that same day. A necropsy revealed that it had swallowed a 28-centimeter (11-inch) plastic bag that had become lodged in its stomach. The obstruction triggered a parasitic infection, severely damaged its digestive system, and ultimately led to its death. Experts called it “a rare and tragic event that highlights the devastating impact of ocean plastics on the marine life of Utila.”

Plastic pollution’s deadly reach

The whale’s death is a stark illustration of how plastic contamination directly and indirectly harms marine ecosystems. The tragedy is compounded by the fact that this was the first confirmed sighting of a pygmy sperm whale in Utila, despite these animals typically inhabiting warm tropical waters.

It serves as a grim reminder that virtually all marine species – from small fish and seabirds to whales and large aquatic mammals – are vulnerable to plastic waste.

According to National Geographic, the Mediterranean is among the world’s most polluted seas. An estimated 95% of waste found in its waters is plastic, making it the sea with the highest recorded density of floating microplastics. These plastics decompose slowly, remaining trapped for years and threatening the health and survival of countless marine species.

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