Scientists have identified a new species of early whale, Janjucetus dullardi, which lived during the Oligocene Epoch around 25 to 23 million years ago, and was discovered from a fossil found in 2019 at Jan Juc Beach, Victoria, Australia.

This tiny predator, approximately 3 meters (10 feet) long, belongs to the mammalodontid family, making it only the fourth such species identified and the first since 2006 in Australia, highlighting the rarity of well-preserved whale fossils.

The fossil includes a partial skull, ear bones, teeth, and evidence of small leg stumps, which suggest early whales had different body morphologies from modern species, though more fossils are needed for a complete understanding.

The fossil reveals that Janjucetus dullardi had razor-sharp teeth, a shark-like snout, and large, tennis ball-sized eyes, indicating its predatory nature and small size, fitting comfortably in a single bed.

Its physical features, such as the large eyes and sharp teeth, point to a predatory lifestyle, and its size and morphology provide valuable insights into early whale evolution.

Erich Fitzgerald from Museums Victoria emphasized the species' evolutionary importance as an early branch leading toward modern baleen whales, showcasing its unique features and evolutionary significance.

The discovery offers crucial insights into the feeding, movement, and behavioral adaptations of ancient whales, helping scientists understand cetacean evolution and how these animals responded to ancient climate changes.

Fossil preservation is rare due to natural erosion and ocean activity, making finds like Janjucetus dullardi especially valuable for reconstructing prehistoric marine ecosystems.

Such discoveries are significant because complete whale fossils are uncommon, and they help scientists piece together whale evolution, behavior, and adaptation to ancient environments.

Ross Dullard, an amateur fossil hunter, discovered the fossil in 2019 and celebrated the find with a fossil-themed party, highlighting the personal and scientific significance of the discovery.

The fossil, which includes a partial skull with ear bones and teeth, was found at Jan Juc Beach, Victoria, and is approximately 25 million years old, marking an important milestone in paleontology.