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> whale vomit
"Whale vomit" is a common, though somewhat inaccurate, term for ambergris, a waxy substance produced in the intestines of sperm whales. It's formed when the whales' digestive system reacts to indigestible squid beaks, creating a solid mass. While sometimes referred to as "whale vomit," it's now thought to be excreted rather than regurgitated, similar to fecal matter. Ambergris is highly valued in the perfume industry for its unique scent and fixative properties