Ambergris

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

• Recently a dead body of sperm whale was found on the shore of the Canary Island of La Palma.
• During post-mortem ambergris of €500,000 value was found in its colon.

Ambergris

• In French it means grey amber.
• It is a waxy substance, also known as white gold, produced from the digestive system of sperm whales.
• Known as whale vomit, it combines a strong marine odour with faecal odour.
• The fresh ambergris appears a fatty and light yellowish substance. However over time it turns waxy and red brownish, grey & black in color.
• In India, ambergris trade is banned.

Sperm Whale and Legal provision

• It is a protected species in India under Schedule 2 of the Wildlife Protection Act.
• Ambergris and its by product trade is illegal in India under provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
• They are listed as vulnerable in IUCN red list.

Must Read Article:

More information on Ambergris and Sperm whale

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/ambergris

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/ambergris-7

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/ambergris-dead-whale-what-is-this-8773672/