Whales are the largest creatures in the world. Interestingly, when they die, they sometimes explode.
Why Do Whales Explode When They Die?
Like humans, whales have immune systems that combat bacteria that invade while the whale is still alive. However, when the whale dies, its immune system fails, which enables fungi and bacteria to feast on it.
As bacteria feasts on whale tissues, they produce gases as growth byproducts. They mainly produce two gases, namely, methane and carbon dioxide, that accumulate within their carcasses. Methane, in particular, could be dangerous as it is lighter compared to air and it can build up in the whale's upper cavity. The gas amounts produced could go as high as several tons.
It is normal for this bacterial consumption, known as putrefaction, to happen to a decomposing body.
While any dead creature will go through putrefaction, a dead whale is less permeable compared to other animal carcasses. This massive creature keeps fat in a thick layer known as blubber, which is situated under its skin and helps keep the whale warm in the ocean. This thick blubber layer, which mostly consists of fat, can be as thick as 30 inches. Because of this blubber, it is difficult for the gases to escape and reach the atmosphere.
When the gases are not sufficiently released, it may lead to bloating. This boosts pressure inside. In the case of a dead whale, because of its blubber, the dead animal ends up floating and inflating. Eventually, the pressure grows to extreme levels and makes the body of the whale explode.
It may take a couple of days to weeks for a whale explosion to occur. This timeframe depends on various factors, including whale size, environmental conditions, and whether scavengers are present or absent.
Whale Explosions Are Rare, Dangerous Events
However, the exact cause of the explosive pop is typically manmade. Several beached whales are moved, poked, or degassed purposefully. This may result in skin rippings that further unleashes a powerful mix of gas, guts, and unpleasant viscera. At times, this comes very fastly.
Whale explosions are quite rare. They typically only happen when the carcass of the animal washes ashore.
The event is also dangerous as it is quite unpredictable and also hazardous. In cases of whale explosions, huge quantities of decomposing flesh end up getting scattered. This may lead to foul odors, health risks, and other effects. It may also result in nearby property damages and put bystanders at dangerous risk.
The phenomenon does not just occur in whales. The buildup and release of gas usually happens among the majority of animals when they decompose. However, this phenomenon is more noticeable among whales due to their massive size.
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