The giant heart of the blue whale
The heart of the blue whale is reputed to be the largest on the planet, but there are a number of curiosities. Its aorta is said to measure over 15 cm in length, exactly the size of a dinner plate, further emphasizing the size of this impressive organ.

Even more surprising, the blue whale’s heart is the size of a small golf cart. It is also said that the heart rate of this enormous creature tends to slow down after a dive of over 1,000 feet.

Compared to the size of its heart, it represents only 1% of its total weight, but despite this, the blue whale’s heart is an extraordinary organ adapted to its massive body. Its ability to pump an incredible amount of blood throughout its immense body is essential to support its gigantic size and enable its epic migratory journeys across the oceans.

To see the next big beast on our list, scroll down.