SakshiOmura’s Whale
The creature Asha and her team had crossed path with was a rare Omura’s whale. This type of whale had never been spotted by anyone before. So, it makes this encounter between the Omura’s whale and the human to be the first documented one.
New Species
It is not that this species has come into existence recently. It has a history of thousands of years. However, it has been classified as its own species some years ago only. The species got its own identity in 2003 in Japan after DNA testing and modern science confirmed its distinction from other whales.
Sources
The scientists had taken only dead specimens into account while classifying this type of whale into a distinct species as the living ones were yet to surface. Due to the whale’s rarity, their live sightings were next to impossible.
Unique And Overlooked
Omura’s whale who has a height of 33 feet possess a narrow body. This is surprising that the marine scientists took so long to declare it a distinct species. As clearly, this species had different features.
Encounter To Remember
It must not have been difficult for scientists to distinguish it from others owing to its unique markings and size. The only source of information about the Omura’s whale for the scientists were the remains of dead specimens till Asha encountered one. The Omura’s whale is one of the most mysterious species residing beneath the water. However, there is much evidence that had always corroborated its existence.
Restricted Roaming
However, that was not the case with fishermen. Seeing an Omura’s whale is not a new thing for them. But they could never distinguish them from others owing to their lack of knowledge. One of the reasons why they are not easily found is their preference for certain water.