Baleen

Baleen is a filter-feeding system found in Mysticete whales (baleen whales). Instead of teeth, these whales possess rows of baleen plates, made of keratin (the same material as human fingernails and hair), that hang from their upper jaws. These plates act as a sieve, allowing the whale to strain small organisms like krill, plankton, and small fish from the water. The baleen is fringed on the inner edge, creating a fine mesh that traps the prey as the whale takes in water and then expels it.

Baleen meaning with examples

• The humpback whale opened its massive mouth, exposing its baleen plates as it engulfed a huge gulp of water filled with krill. The water then filtered back out through the baleen, leaving a mouthful of tasty crustaceans. This feeding technique allows whales to consume vast quantities of small organisms efficiently.
• Scientists study baleen plates to analyze the whale's diet, age, and even environmental toxins. The chemical composition of the baleen provides valuable insights into the whale's life and health. Analyzing baleen is an important non-invasive research method.
• The whale, with its baleen-lined mouth, swam through the ocean, and the texture of the baleen felt rough against the passing water as it filtered the tiny organisms and prey. The baleen's flexibility helps it conform to the flow of water.
• Early whalers, prized whale oil and baleen, which was used for products like corset stays and buggy whips. Demand for these products significantly impacted whale populations. baleen also served as an alternative for plastics.
• As a whale opens its mouth, it creates a massive intake of water, and its baleen filters the plankton. This process enables the whale to efficiently harvest its food. This process is essential for their survival.