My name is Dr. Isabelle Schulz, and I am a marine biologist currently based at the Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) on Little Cayman, Cayman Islands, where I serve as Field Station Manager.

I am reaching out on behalf of a resident on Grand Cayman who recently discovered a waxy material washed ashore. After doing some research on his own, he suspects it may be ambergris and has contacted CCMI, specifically me, asking for assistance with identification.

While I am equally intrigued by the possibility, I should mention that I am a phytoplankton ecologist by training and not an expert in marine mammal research or ambergris identification. That is why I am reaching out to this knowledgeable community.

We are hoping to connect with someone experienced in this field who could advise on how to properly verify the material or recommend a reliable laboratory for testing. Photographs are available, and we would be happy to provide more details to anyone who may be able to assist.

Thank you in advance for any guidance or contacts you can share.

Best, 

Isabelle

Isabelle Schulz, Dr.