A dolphin in a Japanese aquarium has received the world’s first artificial fin—not counting scuba gear, mind you—to replace one that was amputated due to disease. Developed by Bridgestone tires for about $95,000, the rubber fin allows the 34-year-old dolphin ‘Fuji’ to swim and even jump. Bridgestone developed many different versions of the fin before finally developing one that was light enough to be worn, yet gentle enough not to harm Fuji’s skin—then they donated it to Fuji for free. (Thanks, Nathan!)
Disabled dolphin jumping again with world’s first artificial fin [AFP]
