Blue whales are the largest animals ever known to have lived on Earth, reaching lengths of up to 100 feet and weighing as much as 200 tons. Their sheer size is awe-inspiring, and it reflects in every aspect of their anatomy.

The blue whale’s heart alone can weigh as much as a small car, around 1,300 pounds, and it beats so powerfully that it can be heard from over two miles away underwater. The major blood vessels of a blue whale, including its veins and arteries, are incredibly vast to support the massive flow of blood required to nourish such a gigantic body. The aorta, which is the main artery coming out of the heart, is large enough that a small child, roughly 3-4 years old, could hypothetically swim through it.

This fact highlights the astonishing scale of the blue whale’s anatomy and underscores the marvels of the natural world. It serves as a reminder of how diverse and extraordinary life on our planet can be, prompting us to appreciate and protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats.