Why Do Whales Explode? A Look at the Biological Process

Reports of whale carcasses “exploding” can be unsettling. This dramatic phenomenon is a natural process of decomposition that begins after a whale’s death. Understanding these biological mechanisms reveals why a deceased whale might unexpectedly rupture.

The Natural Process of Decomposition

When a whale dies, decomposition commences immediately within its body. Bacteria, especially those in the whale’s gut, begin breaking down tissues and any remaining food. This biological breakdown occurs in an anaerobic environment, meaning it happens without oxygen. As bacteria consume organic matter, they produce various gases as metabolic byproducts.

These gases include methane, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia. Methane is a significant component. Hydrogen sulfide creates a strong, unpleasant odor, often described as rotting eggs. This gas production is standard in large animal decomposition, but whales are unique due to their immense size.

The Build-Up of Internal Pressure

Gases generated during decomposition accumulate within the whale’s body cavity. Whales have tough skin and a thick blubber layer, acting as a sealed container. This prevents gases from escaping, causing the carcass to bloat considerably.

This containment significantly increases internal pressure, turning the whale’s body into a pressurized vessel. The carcass can inflate to nearly twice its original volume. This pressure builds until the whale’s body can no longer withstand the force.

Why Explosions Happen

Whale carcass explosions occur primarily due to overwhelming internal pressure. Sometimes, pressure becomes too great for the skin and blubber to contain, leading to a natural rupture. This spontaneous bursting releases gas and bodily fluids, often projecting debris over considerable distances.

Human intervention can also inadvertently trigger an explosion. In 1970, in Florence, Oregon, the Highway Division used dynamite to dispose of a 45-foot sperm whale. Instead of disintegrating, large chunks of blubber and flesh were propelled over 800 feet, damaging a car and raining down on spectators. Another instance in Taiwan in 2004 saw a sperm whale spontaneously burst in a crowded urban area during transport.

What to Do When Encountering a Stranded Whale

Encountering a beached or floating whale carcass requires caution for public safety. Maintain a significant distance due to explosion risk from internal gas buildup. Decomposing remains also pose health hazards, attracting predators like sharks and carrying potential disease.

Never attempt to interact with, touch, or move the whale yourself. Instead, immediately contact local authorities, wildlife rescue organizations, or marine mammal stranding networks. These trained professionals have the expertise and equipment to safely assess and manage the carcass. In the U.S., report stranded marine mammals to the NOAA Fisheries hotline at 1-877-WHALE-HELP (1-877-942-5343).

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