Humans share a special ‘bond’ with dolphins and whales. And it appears that a common human problem that comes with ageing is also a problem for these mammals.
Three species of cetacean stranded off the coast of Scotland, including a bottlenose dolphin and a long-finned pilot whale, were found to have the classic markers of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a study reported in The Guardian.
Collaborative research by several Scottish universities found key brain changes associated with human Alzheimer’s disease in three of 22 toothed whales.
Scientists say the findings could support one theory about why some pods of whales and dolphins run aground in shallow water.
Some mass strandings have been linked to increasing noise in the oceans, but Alzheimer’s-like signs in the brain could support a ‘sick leader’ theory, whereby mostly healthy cetaceans are stranded because they follow a group leader that has become confused or lost.
Do you feel a special affinity for dolphins and whales? Have you been whale watching?
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