The Bowhead Whale: The Mightiest Mammal on Earth

KBRN..VOI Jakarta: The largest mammal on Earth is the whale, which lives in the ocean. There are many species of whales, but one species in particular, the Bowhead Whale (Balaena mysticetus), possesses remarkable features, especially in terms of survival.

The Bowhead Whale has recently drawn attention after a fragment of an explosive harpoon was found embedded in its body in 2007. The harpoon is estimated to have originated from the late 19th century and had been lodged in the whale's body for over 100 years without killing it.

This discovery reveals a remarkable testament to the whale's resilience. The whale had survived the Arctic Ocean with a hunting wound for over a century without developing a fatal infection. Scientists estimate the whale was at least 115 years old when it was captured, cementing the bowhead whale's position as the longest-living mammal on Earth.

Bowhead whales are Arctic-dwelling giants that spend almost their entire lives in the freezing polar waters. Their barrel-shaped bodies can grow up to 18.8 meters long and weigh up to 90 tons. They have a layer of fat, or blubber, up to 50 centimeters thick, which acts as a natural thermal insulator.

This mammal was once driven to the brink of extinction by intensive commercial whaling in the past. However, after commercial hunting was effectively stopped in 1921, their population began to recover. Currently, their numbers are estimated to be between 10,000 and 23,000 individuals.

Recent research has shown that bowhead whales have extremely high levels of the protein CIRBP, up to 100 times higher than other mammals. This protein functions as a DNA repair system, combined with their cellular regeneration abilities, allowing them to live up to two centuries without developing degenerative diseases like cancer.

Analysis of the whale's eye lenses has also been key for researchers to uncover the secret of the longevity of the oldest mammals on Earth. Within the whale's eye lenses are molecules called aspartate, which change over time through racemization, akin to radiocarbon dating.

With this discovery, scientists hope to better understand the mechanisms of bowhead whale longevity and apply them to humans. Further research is underway to uncover the secrets behind the bowhead whale's resilience

Source: NGC, Mongabay