Three New Bacterial Types Discovered in Pygmy Sperm Whales

Scientists have identified three previously unknown types of *Helicobacter* bacteria in the stomachs of pygmy sperm whales. This discovery came from studying decades of whale strandings. Researchers at Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and other institutions made the findings. The study was published in the *Journal of Wildlife Diseases*.

Pygmy sperm whales (*Kogia breviceps*) are difficult to study in their natural habitat. Most information about them comes from individuals that wash ashore. Strandings are frequent along the southeastern United States. These events provide opportunities for scientific examination.

From 1999 to 2020, 59 pygmy sperm whale strandings occurred. Post-mortem examinations were conducted on 80 percent of these animals. Four whales showed spiral-shaped bacteria in their stomach tissue. Further analysis identified three new *Helicobacter* genotypes, named *Kogia Helicobacter* 1, 2, and 3.

All four infected whales exhibited severe digestive damage. This included inflammation, ulcers, scarring, and parasite infestations. *Kogia Helicobacter* 1 and 2 are genetically similar to *Helicobacter* species found in other cetaceans and humans. *Kogia Helicobacter* 3 represents a more distinct lineage. This suggests a greater diversity of undiscovered bacteria in the ocean.

Researchers did not confirm *Helicobacter* as the direct cause of death for these whales. However, the consistent presence of gastrointestinal lesions suggests a role in chronic illness. This research highlights the importance of long-term marine mammal stranding programs. It also raises questions about bacterial infections in marine wildlife and ocean health.