Whale with mysterious spinal twist baffles scientists in Spain

A drone video captured a whale with a very unusual appearance. The whale was diagnosed with spinal curvature, an extremely rare condition among marine mammals. The deformity challenges the animal's ability to function well in its natural environment.

Occasionally, whales can be observed with broken spines due to ship collisions. In this instance, a fin whale, also known as a finback whale, was seen with an exceptionally twisted spine. The causes of this condition remain unknown.

This enormous mammal, weighing 44 tons and measuring 52 feet, was spotted in early March 2023 near the city of Cullera in Valencia, Spain. The captain of a nearby ship reported the unusual sight, noting that the large mammal might have become entangled in fishing nets. Veterinarians and marine biology specialists quickly arrived at the scene.

Upon arrival, it was determined that the whale was not entangled in a net. However, its movement was concerning. Scientists concluded that this individual's condition is more complex than just being trapped. It was determined that the whale suffered from a spinal curvature of unknown origin.

Research indicates that the animal's altered posture leads to a different arrangement of internal organs than in a healthy individual. Unlike humans, whales do not experience scoliosis due to development. Often, spinal problems in these mammals result from collisions with vessels, but this situation is less clear, making the case unique.

After several hours of observation and research, the whale returned to the ocean to continue its journey. Due to its deformity and size, scientists could not attach a tracking device. Nonetheless, they are convinced that given its current swimming difficulties, the whale will return to the vicinity of Cullera in the future.