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Researchers have discovered that the mechanism behind the underwater communication of baleen whales, which are the largest animals to have ever existed, is found in their distinct vocal cords.
Scientists have identified certain animals, such as the blue whale, as having unique features in their larynx that allow them to produce sounds in a manner previously unknown to researchers.
Baleen whales are believed to communicate through a variety of vocalizations, including moans, grunts, thumps, and knocks, in order to communicate, navigate, and attract potential mates.
These musical pieces are created with extremely low frequencies, reaching a maximum of 300Hz. This enables them to transmit signals over large bodies of water, as low-frequency sounds are not absorbed as quickly in the ocean as high-frequency ones.
However, the team stated that the specialized vocal structure of these whales, which allows them to produce low-frequency sounds, presents difficulties when it comes to human-generated noises in the ocean that typically fall within the range of 30-300 Hz.
According to researchers, baleen whales are only able to communicate up to a depth of 100 meters below the surface. This suggests that they are likely being overpowered by the sounds produced by ships and other maritime activity.
Unfortunately, according to Professor Coen Elemans from the biology department at the University of Southern Denmark, the predicted frequency range and maximum communication depth of 100 meters overlaps with the dominant frequency range and depth of human-made noise from shipping traffic.
The researchers are urging for improved regulations to safeguard the species based on their discoveries published in the journal Nature.
Professor Elemans stated that the oceans are currently experiencing a higher level of human-generated noise from activities such as shipping, drilling, and the use of seismic guns, compared to the 1970s.
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“We must implement stringent rules for this type of noise, as these whales rely on sound for communication.”
We will demonstrate that, despite their incredible physical abilities, marine creatures are unable to avoid the disturbance caused by human noise in the oceans.
Baleen whales, such as the blue whale, are among the biggest creatures on our planet. They can reach lengths of up to 30 metres (100ft) and weigh as much as 200 tonnes.
The baleen plates of these whales are composed of keratin, which is also found in human fingernails and hair, instead of teeth.
For over 50 years, researchers have been attempting to understand the method behind baleen whales’ intricate vocalizations since their initial discovery of whale songs.
The scientists examined the larynxes of sei whales and humpback whales in a laboratory for the study.
They successfully simulated the airflow within the organ to generate sound.
The scientists discovered that these whales possess a significant U-shaped formation composed of elongated, cylindrical tissues known as arytenoids, which are fused together at the base.
This particular anatomy is exclusive to baleen whales and enables them to create low-frequency noises in the water using air, as well as assisting them in their forceful surface breaths.
According to Professor Elemans, our research discovered that a U-shaped formation within the larynx exerts pressure on a large fatty cushion located on its interior.
“When whales expel air from their lungs, it causes a vibration in the cushion, creating low-frequency underwater sounds.”
He stated, “Our tests demonstrated, for the first time, the method by which the whales produce their vocalizations at very low frequencies.”
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