
Balaenoptera musculus (Blue whale)
The Balaenoptera musculus, or blue whale, is the largest animal on Earth, reaching lengths up to 100 feet and weighing as much as 200 tons. As a marine mammal, it lives in oceans worldwide and feeds mainly on tiny shrimp-like creatures called krill. Blue whales communicate through low-frequency sounds that can travel long distances underwater. Despite their immense size, they are gentle giants and are currently endangered due to past whaling and habitat disturbances. Protecting these incredible creatures is vital to maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.