A remarkable discovery along Victoria’s surf coast has unveiled a new species of ancient whale, identified as Janjucetus dullardi, thanks to local resident Ross Dullard. While strolling on the beach in 2019, Dullard stumbled upon a fossilised partial skull, complete with ear bones and teeth, which he graciously donated to the Museums Victoria Research Institute for scientific study.
The analysis conducted by researchers confirmed that this fossil belongs to an entirely new species. Janjucetus dullardi adds significant understanding to the early evolution of baleen whales, hailing from a lineage that existed approximately 30 to 23 million years ago. Unlike today’s massive whales, this species was considerably smaller, roughly the size of a dolphin, and equipped with formidable features such as large forward-facing eyes and sharp teeth. Researchers describe it as reminiscent of a “shark-like version of a baleen whale” — small and seemingly innocent but undoubtedly a predator.
Ruairidh Duncan, a PhD student at Museums Victoria, expressed the monumental nature of Dullard’s find, noting that it “unlocked an entire chapter of whale evolution we’ve never seen before,” according to senior curator of vertebrate palaeontology Dr Erich Fitzgerald. The discovery serves as a timely reminder that significant scientific breakthroughs can emerge from familiar surroundings.
Janjucetus dullardi is notable as the only known member of the mammalodontid family identified so far, with three other related species also located within Victoria. Fitzgerald emphasized the significance of the region, highlighting its historical role as a breeding ground for some of the most peculiar whales in existence. With ongoing research efforts, the team is optimistic about uncovering more fossil treasures along Victoria’s coastline in the future.