A note on the preparation of sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) teeth for age determination

We describe a modification to the most common method of preparing sperm whale teeth for age determination. The first mandibular or nearest straightest tooth was sectioned in half with slow-rotating band saw, polished and, rather than subjecting 10% formic acid 30 hours, etched 15% acid. exposure time each varied depending on size, and especially, density tooth. Clear, well defined growth layer groups suitable determination can be produced substantially shorter periods time. A preparation from young whales is also described. Thin sectioning staining used prepare small animals avoids potential decalcification, which may possibly occur using etching methods.