'Real life Aquamen': Indonesian tribe’s mutation lets them stay underwater for 5 hours a day
Produced by: Manoj Kumar
Underwater Masters
The Bajau, known as "sea nomads," spend up to eight hours a day diving to impressive depths, relying on unique adaptations to thrive underwater.
Genetic Advantage
Their enlarged spleens, driven by a rare gene mutation, release oxygen-rich red blood cells during dives, enabling prolonged underwater endurance.
Record Dives
The Bajau can dive as deep as 70 meters without equipment, holding their breath for up to 13 minutes, a feat few can replicate.
Seal Connection
Similar to marine animals like seals, the Bajau’s adaptation includes spleen enlargement for oxygen storage, showcasing a striking parallel in evolution.
Scientific Insight
Research by Melissa Ilardo at Cambridge links the Bajau’s abilities to elevated thyroid hormones that stimulate spleen growth and enhance their diving performance.
Cultural Threat
Commercial fishing, resource depletion, and lack of citizenship jeopardize the Bajau’s traditional way of life and unique diving abilities.
Endangered Skills
Modern pressures threaten the preservation of ancestral knowledge and the exceptional biological traits developed over generations.
Human Evolution
The Bajau exemplify extraordinary human adaptation, offering insight into how humans can evolve to survive in extreme environments.
Call to Action
Protecting the Bajau’s way of life is critical to preserving their remarkable genetic legacy and cultural heritage for future generations.