why are sperm whales called sperm whales?

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why are sperm whales called sperm whales?

Please tell me, and dont mention penises or sperm or any other sexual innuedos

2006-10-13 08:28:49 · 2 answers · asked by Dr. Yasha 3 in Social Science ➔ Other - Social Science

2 answers

The sperm whale was named for the valuable spermaceti oil (wax) that this whale produces in the spermaceti organ (located in its head).

BTW, the fictional Moby Dick was a sperm whale.

2006-10-13 10:45:36 · answer #1 · answered by blapath 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋

They have spermaceti (spelling?) oil in their heads. I believe the oil is used in a lens for focusing its sonar.

2006-10-13 15:36:28 · answer #2 · answered by JimZ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋