Whale Lice Offer Links to Past

By Jessa Forte Netting
Jan 17, 2006 6:00 AMNov 12, 2019 4:43 AM
rd-whalelice.jpg
Cyamids are actually harmless crustaceans about three-fifths of an inch long. About 7,500 of them live on a single 70-ton right whale. | Courtesy Victoria Rowntree, University of Utah

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

For an epic story of whales and whaling, one need not turn to a 19th-century novel. Their travels and travails are coming to light through the genes of a parasite—the whale louse.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2025 LabX Media Group