Sperm Whale

Category: Environment | Biodiversity | Marine Ecology

UPSC Notes

The sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) is the largest toothed whale and one of the deepest-diving marine mammals. It is known for its disproportionately large head, echolocation ability and feeding on squid, including deep-sea species.

Key Pointers

  • Group: Cetacea; toothed whales (Odontoceti).

  • Habitat: Deep waters of oceans worldwide.

  • Diet: Mainly squid and fish.

  • Adaptations: Echolocation, oxygen conservation and tolerance of high pressure.

  • Ecological role: Deep-sea predator that contributes to marine food-web dynamics and nutrient cycling.

  • Threats: Entanglement in fishing gear, ship strikes, underwater noise, marine pollution and historical whaling.

  • Conservation: Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List; international trade in specimens is regulated under CITES.

UPSC focus: Marine biodiversity, food webs, ocean noise pollution and conservation of migratory marine species.