AMBERGRIS
Context
Days after the carcass of a sperm whale washed up on a shore of the Canary Island of La Palma, a pathologist, who carried out the animal’s postmortem, found ambergris, also known as ‘floating gold’, stuck in its colon, The Guardian reported recently. The lump retrieved from the sperm whale is estimated to be worth about €500,000 (Rs 4,47,62,500).
What is Ambergris?
- Ambergris is a substance produced in the digestive systems of sperm whales.
- It is formed as a result of a natural defense mechanism of the whales when they consume certain materials, such as squid beaks or other hard objects, that cannot be easily digested.
- The whale's digestive enzymes transform these indigestible materials into a waxy and solid substance known as ambergris.
- Ambergris has a unique and distinctive aroma, often described as earthy, musky, and slightly sweet.
- Over time, as it is exposed to sunlight and the elements, ambergris undergoes a chemical transformation that enhances its fragrance and develops a pleasant scent.
Image Source: Quora
Why is it so expensive?
- Historically, ambergris has been highly prized and used in various industries, particularly in the production of luxury perfumes and fragrances.
- It is valued for its ability to enhance and prolong the scent of perfumes, acting as a fixative and adding depth and complexity to fragrances.
- It's rarity and unique properties have made it one of the most expensive and sought-after natural substances in the world.
- It is worth noting that the use of ambergris in perfumes has raised ethical concerns in recent times.
- As ambergris is derived from sperm whales, an endangered species, the international trade in raw ambergris is regulated under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
- Many perfumers now use synthetic alternatives or plant-based materials to replicate the scent of ambergris, reducing the demand for the natural substance and helping to protect whale populations.
International Trade and Legal Restrictions
- Ban in Some Countries: Countries like the USA, Australia, and India have imposed a ban on the possession and trade of ambergris due to its association with protected species.
- Protected Species: Sperm whales, the source of ambergris, are protected under Schedule 2 of the Wildlife Protection Act in India.
- Illegal in India: Possession or trade of ambergris and its by-products is illegal in India under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
- Trade Restrictions: Several countries allow the trade of ambergris but with limitations and regulations in place.
- Smuggling Gangs: Gangs involved in ambergris smuggling obtain it from coastal areas and transport it through countries with less stringent sea trade regulations to reach destination countries.
- Comparative Stringency: India's regulations on sea trade are comparatively less stringent, making it a potential transit route for smuggling.
| For Prelims: Ambergris, Canary Island of La Palma, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. |
Source: The Indian Express
