Blubber isn't skin, but rather a thick layer of fat, or adipose tissue, located directly under the skin of marine mammals. It acts as insulation, an energy reserve, and contributes to buoyancy.
What is Blubber Composed Of?
Blubber is primarily composed of fat cells, but also contains:
- Connective tissue: Provides structural support.
- Blood vessels: Supply nutrients and oxygen.
- Nerves: Help with sensory perception, including temperature.
Function of Blubber
Blubber plays several vital roles in marine mammals' survival:
- Insulation: Keeps the animal warm in cold water, preventing hypothermia. This is especially important for animals living in polar regions.
- Energy Reserve: Provides a source of energy when food is scarce. The fat in blubber can be metabolized to sustain the animal during periods of fasting or migration.
- Buoyancy: Helps the animal float, requiring less energy to stay at the surface.
- Streamlining: Can contribute to a more streamlined body shape, reducing drag in the water.
Where is Blubber Found?
Blubber covers most of the body of marine mammals such as:
- Seals
- Whales
- Walruses
Blubber is typically absent, or very thin, on areas like fins, flippers, and flukes.
Relationship to Skin
While blubber is located under the skin, it is directly connected to it. The skin and blubber work together to protect the animal. The skin acts as the outer barrier, protecting against infection and injury, while the blubber provides insulation and energy storage.
