The Ahmedabad Rural Special Operations Group (SOG) recently seized 2.97 kg of ambergris, commonly known as sperm whale vomit, worth nearly ₹2.97 crore in the international market and arrested two people.
About Ambergris:
Ambergris, also known as ‘whale vomit’ is a solid, waxy substance produced in the digestive system of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus).
It is extremely valuable and has been called the ‘treasure of the sea’ and ‘floating gold’.
It is highly valued in the perfume industry as a fragrance enhancer.
It is also used in traditional medicines and sometimes even as a spice in eastern cultures.
There is a ban on the possession and trade of ambergris in countries like the USA, Australia, and India.
In India, the sale and trade of ambergris are strictly prohibited under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Formation:
It is formed in the intestine of the whale to cover the indigestible objects from the animals on which it feeds (mostly the beaks of squid).
Once released, it initially floats on the ocean's surface and is black and sticky.
Exposure to sun, air, and salt water oxidizes it, and eventually it becomes grey and waxy, often still embedded with small squid beaks. and losing its unpleasant odour.
Ambergris is found in lumps of various shapes and sizes, ranging from 15 grams up to 420 kilograms.
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