Scientists find 3 unknown stomach bacteria in elusive pygmy sperm whale

Scientists have uncovered three previously unknown types of stomach bacteria in pygmy sperm whales, offering fresh insights into the health of one of the ocean's least understood marine mammals. The discovery comes after researchers examined more than two decades of stranded whales along Florida's Atlantic coast, where rare opportunities to study these deep-diving animals have helped reveal hidden aspects of their biology. The findings were published in the Journal of Wildlife Diseases by researchers from Florida Atlantic University's Harbour Branch Oceanographic Institute and collaborators.A rare glimpse into an elusive whalePygmy sperm whales (Kogia breviceps) are among the world's most elusive whales. They spend most of their lives far offshore, travel in small groups and dive hundreds of metres below the surface to hunt squid and fish.