A silent threat is circulating in the Arctic waters, detected not by traditional methods, but by a revolutionary approach: drones carrying petri dishes to collect the misty exhalations of whales.
Researchers have confirmed the presence of cetacean morbillivirus within these “blows,” a highly contagious disease devastating whale, dolphin, and porpoise populations across vast oceans.
This virus isn’t a slow creep; it’s a wildfire capable of mass mortality events, suspected to be the cause of numerous whale strandings witnessed around the globe.
The study focused on several species – majestic humpbacks, powerful sperm whales, and sleek fin whales – inhabiting the northeast Atlantic Ocean, revealing a widespread presence of the deadly pathogen.
A particularly poignant discovery came from a stranded pilot whale in northern Norway, its tissues confirming the virus’s reach, alongside evidence of herpesviruses detected in humpbacks off the coasts of Norway, Iceland, and Cape Verde.
Scientists are hailing the drone technology as a “game-changer,” offering the potential to identify emerging threats to marine life *before* they escalate into widespread crises.
The innovative technique involves capturing water droplets expelled from the whales’ blowholes using specially designed petri dishes, then meticulously analyzing these samples for hidden pathogens.
Complementing the drone work, researchers also examined skin biopsies and a single organ sample, further solidifying the evidence of viral infections within these vulnerable creatures.
This non-invasive approach, spearheaded by teams from King’s College London, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, and Nord University in Norway, promises critical insights into marine health without causing harm to the whales themselves.
The goal extends beyond immediate detection; scientists envision long-term surveillance, tracking how these viruses impact whale health over extended periods and understanding the dynamics of their spread.
The urgency of this research is underscored by the fact that up to 2,000 cetaceans strand themselves on beaches each year, many potentially succumbing to the effects of diseases like this one.
Cetacean morbillivirus was first identified in 1987, and its effects are devastating, attacking the respiratory, neurological, and immune systems, leaving whales vulnerable and weakened.
Recent findings have also raised concerns about potential outbreaks during the winter feeding season, a time when whales, seabirds, and even humans find themselves in closer proximity, increasing the risk of transmission.
This new understanding of viral spread in whale populations represents a crucial step towards protecting these magnificent creatures and preserving the health of our oceans.
