LIPIDS OF THE FIN WHALE (BALAENOPTERA PHYSALUS) FROM NORTH ATLANTIC WATERS: I. FATTY ACID COMPOSITION OF WHOLE BLUBBER AND BLUBBER SECTIONS

Abstract

Oils from sectioned blubber, whole blubber oils, and commercial oils from the fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) taken in Nova Scotia waters have been examined. The general properties include much lower iodine values (105–117) than those commonly reported for North Atlantic (Arctic) baleen whales. The fatty acid composition pattern has been determined by gas–liquid chromatography and varies systematically with the type of acid across the blubber section, the inner section having the highest iodine value. The roles of the blubber in physiological functions other than as an insulating layer are discussed in terms of fatty acid composition.