Deepest and most extensive whale graveyard discovered in Indian Ocean

The oldest, deepest, and most extensive whale graveyard ever discovered has been identified in the southeastern Indian Ocean, with fossils dating back over 5 million years. This significant find, located in the Diamantina fracture zone, extends hundreds of miles across the seabed and reaches depths exceeding 7 kilometers (4.3 miles). Whale falls, the term for deceased whales that sink to the ocean floor, are known phenomena, but previous discoveries have typically been found at depths less than 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). The fossils unearthed at this new site are expected to reveal previously unknown whale species and marine ecosystems, offering unprecedented insights into prehistoric ocean life and the geological history of the region. The sheer scale and depth of this "necropolis" suggest a long-standing and substantial accumulation of whale carcasses over millennia, providing a unique window into the past. Further research on these ancient remains could significantly advance our understanding of cetacean evolution and paleoceanography.