Express News Service KARWAR: A piece of hardened substance found on Murudeshwara beach in Uttara Kannada district has thrilled marine biology experts. The substance is said to be grey amber – the vomit of a sperm whale – found for the first time along the State’s coast and considered pivotal for research.. A fisherman on a stroll in Murudeshwar came across a pungent smell, which kindled his curiosity. He traced the smell to a stone-like substance on the shore. Considering it unusual, he contacted experts in the Department of Marine Biology in Karwar, who identified it as ‘ambergris’, the vomit of sperm whale. He was advised to hand it over to the Forest department. “He found it on Murudeshwara beach, and it is now in our custody. Fishermen keep finding something unique which they hand over to us,” said Ranganath, Range Forest Officer, Manke.