![]() Though not necessarily connected to its anatomical size, there is evidence that blue whales, like other rorquals, have maternal bonds with their calves through the first year or so of their lives. With time, more research will be done on the blue whale’s physiology, but what we know so far is pretty fascinating!īlue Whale - Credit: Photo by Michael “Mike” L. It is an incredibly efficient way to save energy while diving. Unlike a straightforward open-and-close valve (like us humans), having elastic contractions could allow the blood to flow in between heartbeats. A slowly contracting aorta (the artery that moves blood to the rest of the body) is what researchers believe is responsible for the blue whale’s heart rate efficiency. It takes an extremely powerful muscle to pump 10 tonnes of blood through a huge body at such great depths. The blue whale’s large muscular heart keeps the blood flowing when the pressure increases in the deep waters. ![]() ![]() A lower heart rate helps the whale to preserve the oxygen levels in their blood and keep their vital organs functioning. The heart rate of a blue whale is also surprisingly “elastic” it is notably slower during deep dives. These gentle giants need large, powerful muscles and organs to accomplish these feats.Ĭompared to the average human heart rate of 60-100 beats per minute, the heart rate of a blue whale can range from 2-10 bpm when submerged to 25 – 37 bpm at the surface. During their travels, they may also need to dive for protection. Infographic credit: Anaïs Remili How does this big heart work?īlues whales are one of many species that seasonally migrate to reach their feeding or breeding habitats. ![]()
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