Rare Humpback Whale Found Dead on Omani Coast

Oman’s Environment Authority has reported the discovery of a rare and endangered humpback whale in the waters of the Arabian Sea, near the shores of Al Jazer, Al Wusta Governorate, approximately 900 kilometers south of Muscat.

Scientific Investigation into the Cause of Death

According to the published report, the Environment Authority, in direct collaboration with the Wali’s Office, the Royal Oman Police, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, is conducting a thorough scientific investigation to determine the primary causes of the whale’s death.

Challenges in the Research Operation

Due to the remoteness of the area, the research team is working with the specialized company Future Seas Global SCP to accurately record data and collect scientific samples. The investigation and sample collection are still ongoing, and upon completion, the whale will be buried in an appropriate location.

Warning of the Serious Risk of Humpback Whale Extinction

The Arabian Sea humpback whale is classified as critically endangered and is listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Scientific studies using satellite tracking have shown that these whales are primarily found in the waters of Oman, Yemen, Iran, and India.

Major Threats to Survival

Experts have identified the following as the most significant threats to this species:

• Climate change and habitat destruction
• Human activities and marine pollution
• Collisions with commercial ships and boats

Urgent Need for Marine Conservation

Given the drastic decline in the Arabian Sea humpback whale population, environmental organizations are calling for urgent and serious measures to protect this valuable species. The findings from recent studies and research represent a crucial step toward the conservation and survival of these rare marine creatures.