A Haven for the World's Largest Coastal Population of Small Bryde's Whales

Bryde's Whales Thrive in Weizhou Island Waters

A research team from Nanjing Normal University has made a significant discovery in the waters surrounding Weizhou Island, Beihai city, South China. Their research has confirmed the presence of a thriving population of Bryde's whales, numbering over 70 individuals. This remarkable finding establishes Weizhou Island as the world's largest coastal habitat for the small Bryde's whale subspecies.

inshore and offshore. Inshore Bryde's whales are smaller in size, with adults typically measuring between 9 and 12 meters, rarely exceeding 14 meters. In contrast, offshore Bryde's whales are larger, with adults reaching lengths of 14 to 16 meters.

The research team employed advanced modeling techniques to meticulously calculate the body lengths of the Bryde's whales observed around Weizhou Island. Their analysis confirmed that none of the whales exceeded the 14-meter threshold, further solidifying their classification as the smaller inshore subspecies.

To conclusively verify the identity of the whales, the researchers conducted genetic analysis using tissue and skeletal samples collected from three individuals. The genetic data provided irrefutable evidence that the Weizhou Island Bryde's whales belong to the small inshore subspecies.

This groundbreaking discovery highlights the ecological significance of Weizhou Island as a critical habitat for the small Bryde's whale. The thriving population underscores the importance of ongoing conservation efforts to protect these majestic creatures and their marine environment.