Archive · 10 Jan 2026
Orcas Use Seaweed Tools for Massages
Scientists found that orcas, which are actually the largest type of dolphin, use seaweed to give each other massages.
They pick up the seaweed and gently move it around on their friends.
This might help them stay clean, feel better, or just have fun together.
It's like when you give a friend a back scratch to make them feel good.
The scientists wrote about this in a special science book called Current Biology.
Orcas use kelp as tools to massage each other.
They bite off strands of seaweed and drape them over other whales.
The behavior resembles a massage and may have hygiene or health benefits.
Scientists also think it could be a form of social play to strengthen bonds.
The study was published in the journal Current Biology.
- Who
- Orcas (killer whales)
- What
- Use kelp as tools to massage each other
- When
- Recently discovered and published in Current Biology
- Where
- Oceans
- Why
- Possible hygiene, health, or social bonding purposes
- Species
- Orcas (killer whales)
- Tool Used
- Kelp (seaweed)
- Behavior
- Massaging each other
- Possible Functions
- Hygiene, health, social bonding
- Study Journal
- Current Biology