Scientists discover a new type of Orca off the southern coast of Chile

A smaller type of orca, with sharper fins and a more rounded head, has been observed by scientists off the coast of southern Chile. Although experts agree that DNA test results are still needed to confirm whether it qualifies as a new species, the discovery is promising.

March, 2019.

Photo: AP (Reference image)

A team of scientists from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the United States reports finding a new type of killer whale that bears a distinctive mark around its eye. According to preliminary analyses, which still need to be verified, this group may represent a unique species with at least 24 individuals observed so far.

For decades, this aquatic mammal was considered a myth among sailors and tourists, who claimed to have seen it. However, until now, no scientific samples of this animal had been collected.

Despite the lack of conclusive evidence that it constitutes a new species, NOAA experts have published their findings. Some scientists believe it may indeed be a distinct species but prefer to wait for the DNA results from tissue samples.

“This is the most distinct-looking orca I have ever seen,” said Robert Pitman, a marine ecologist at NOAA in San Diego, United States, and a member of the team that sighted these killer whales off Cape Horn, at the southern tip of Chile.

Among the unique features of this possible new specimen is a small white spot near the eye—unlike the larger spot typical of other killer whales. Additionally, its head is slightly rounder and less streamlined, and its dorsal fins are smaller and more pointed.

Pitman noted that these killer whales are so different that they may not be able to interbreed with traditional species. Measuring between 6 and 7.5 meters in length, they are slightly smaller than most other killer whales.

Source:  chiledesarrollosustentable.cl