PREVIEW

Killer Cutie! Tiny Ancient Whale Had Doe-eyes but Razor-sharp Teeth. Australian scientists have identified species of razor-toothed ancient whale with cuter looks than its fearsome bite would suggest. Despite its menacing fangs, Janjucetus dullardi had large eyes and a compact body. The beast of the deep, which lived around 25 million years ago, is thought to be one of the earliest cousins of modern baleen whales – but unlike today’s gentle giants, it was a small, swift predator. Researchers at Museums Victoria’s Research Institute identified the species from a partial skull, including ear bones and teeth found near Jan Juc, on Wadawurrung Country, along Victoria’s Surf Coast. The fossil was discovered in June 2019 by local resident Ross Dullard, who spotted it while walking on the beach and later donated it to Museums Victoria. In recognition of his contribution, the species has been named in his honour. “Ross’ discovery has unlocked an entire chapter of whale evolution we’ve never seen before. It’s a reminder that world-changing fossils can be found in your own backyard.” Janjucetus dullardi was a juvenile “baby whale”, just over two metres long. “It’s essentially a little whale with big eyes and a mouth full of sharp, slicing teeth,” said Ruairidh Duncan, PhD student and lead author of the study. “Imagine the shark-like version of a baleen whale – small and deceptively cute, but definitely not harmless.”