Iberian orcas, increasingly trapped
Researchers have identified key habitats for Iberian orcas, showing they are closely tied to tuna migration patterns. The small population faces threats from human activity in their limited habitat.
Whales
Articles tagged with Whales
Ancient New Zealand 'Dawn Whale' identified by Otago researchers
Otago researchers have discovered a previously unknown genus of fossil baleen whales and two species within it, rewriting the history of New Zealand's ancient whales. The genus, Tohoraata, translates to 'Dawn Whale' in Māori, with the two identified species living between 27-25 million years ago.
The science behind swimming
Researchers discovered a simple scaling law that describes how the speed of an organism changes with its size, movement speed, and other factors. The study found that all animals, from tiny fish larvae to massive whales, can be described by one of two equations, indicating general principles at work.
Whale sex: It's all in the hips
Research from USC and NHM found that whale pelvic bones serve a purpose and are influenced by sexual selection. The study compared the size of pelvic bones to testis size, revealing a correlation between more competitive mating environments and larger pelvic bones.
California blue whales rebound from whaling, first of their kin to do so
The California blue whale population has rebounded to near historical levels, according to new research. The recovery is attributed to careful management and conservation measures, rather than ship strikes or other human-caused factors.
Dolphins and whales experience pleasure
Researchers found that dolphins and beluga whales exhibit a delay between reward anticipation and squealing, suggesting they experience pleasure. This behavior is comparable to the timing of dopamine release in humans.
Minke whales lunge 100 times/hour to feed under sea ice
Researchers have made the first live observations of minke whales feeding under sea ice, revealing a unique behavior that involves lunging up to 100 times per hour. The team used non-lethal tagging methods to study the whales' diet and habitat, providing new insights into the Antarctic ecosystem.
The Maldives and the whale shark: The world's biggest fish adds value to paradise
A new study reveals that a single Maldivian atoll's whale sharks account for nearly 3% of global shark ecotourism. The South Ari atoll Marine Protected Area attracts 77,000 tourists annually, generating $9.4 million in direct income. The valuation of wildlife tourism is the first to be calculated exclusively from observational studies.
Newly discovered juvenile whale shark aggregation in Red Sea
Researchers found hundreds of juvenile whale sharks gathering on coral reefs near Saudi Arabia, providing a rare insight into their daily lives and movements. The study tracked the sharks' movements over years, revealing frequent deep dives and a sex ratio of 1:1 at the site.
Insights on whale shark populations and evidence for their historic rise and recent decline
Research suggests two distinct whale shark populations exist in the Indo-Pacific and Atlantic Ocean with minimal mixing. Genetic diversity at Ningaloo Reef in Australia has declined over five consecutive years, potentially indicating a recent bottleneck.
Blue whales' dangerous feeding grounds
A 15-year study reveals that blue whales consistently return to specific feeding grounds along the US West Coast, despite busy shipping lanes. The findings highlight the need for modifications in ship routing to reduce human threats to the endangered species.
15-year analysis of blue whale range off California finds conflict with shipping lanes
A 15-year analysis of blue whale movements off the West Coast found that their feeding areas are bisected by shipping lanes, increasing the risk of injury and mortality. Researchers suggest moving shipping lanes to reduce collisions, similar to a previous study that reduced right whale strikes in the Bay of Fundy.
Whale shark fringe migration
A 16-year study reveals that the Azore islands are becoming a crucial part of the Atlantic whale shark's habitat due to rising ocean temperatures. The researchers found that increased sightings were correlated with higher water temperatures and seafloor features, such as slopes and seamounts.
Whales as ecosystem engineers
New research reveals whales have a powerful impact on oceans, global carbon storage, and commercial fisheries. The recovery of great whale populations may buffer marine ecosystems from climate change threats by recycling nutrients and enhancing productivity.
Notifying speeding mariners lowers ship speeds in areas with North Atlantic right whales
A NOAA regulation has been effective in lowering ship speeds in areas with North Atlantic right whales, helping protect these critically endangered animals from collisions. The policy of notifying speeding vessels resulted in improved compliance rates, especially among cargo vessels.
Panama saves whales and protects world trade
The Panama government has implemented new traffic separation schemes to minimize overlap between commercial vessels and humpback whale migration routes. The changes are expected to reduce vessel speed four months a year and minimize vessel-whale collisions by up to 95%.
Humpback whale subspecies revealed by genetic study
A genetic study has identified three distinct subspecies of humpback whales in the North Pacific, North Atlantic, and Southern Hemisphere. The findings suggest that these populations have been isolated for thousands of years, with some populations migrating only between warm equatorial waters.
Which has a more efficient 'engine': A tuna or a whale?
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new metric to measure energy consumption efficiency in animals of different sizes. Contrary to expectations, the study found that the gray whale and skipjack tuna are almost equally efficient, with the whale's higher fuel consumption being an unavoidable consequence of physics.
Redescription of the oldest-known dolphin skull sheds light on their origins and evolution
A new study re-describes the oldest species of dolphin, Eodelphis kabatensis, shedding light on their origins and evolution. The discovery resolves a discrepancy between fossil records and molecular-based studies, providing crucial insights into the evolutionary history of dolphins.
Predator-prey made simple
Researchers developed a way to simplify modeling of 'bistable' systems, involving two evolving species with different timescales. This new approach can accurately predict population dynamics and time to extinction in predator-prey models.
Investigators find something fishy with classical evidence for dietary fish recommendation
A new investigation in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology challenges the long-held recommendation to include oily fish in a heart-healthy diet. Researchers found that Greenland Eskimos, who were initially believed to have low rates of coronary artery disease, actually suffered from CAD at the same rate as other populations.
Scientists identify source of mysterious sound in the Southern Ocean
Researchers found the bio-duck sound is made by Antarctic minke whales, which stay in ice-covered waters year-round or migrate to lower latitudes. The discovery helps improve understanding of the species' distribution, abundance, and behavior.
Tracking sperm whales' ecology through stomach contents
Researchers analyzed stomach contents of pygmy and dwarf sperm whales to better understand their feeding ecologies. The study found that while the two species share similar foraging parameters, pygmy sperm whales consume a greater diversity and size of prey.
Cuvier's beaked whales set new breath-hold diving records
Researchers monitored Cuvier's beaked whales' record-breaking dives to depths of nearly two miles below the ocean surface and some dives lasted for over two hours. The dives captured by this study exceed previous records, including the mammalian dive record previously set by southern elephant seals.
Humpback whale populations share core skin bacterial community
Researchers found that humpback whale skin bacterial communities consist mainly of Tenacibaculum and Psychrobacter spp., but differ by geographic location and metabolic state. The study suggests that these bacteria may act as an indicator of whales' health and the environment.
Scientists identify core skin bacterial community in humpback whales
Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution identified a core skin bacterial community shared by humpback whales across populations, suggesting a way to assess their overall health. The study's findings could aid in population health monitoring and conservation status of threatened or endangered marine mammals.
Ancient sea creatures filtered food like modern whales
Researchers discovered fossils of Tamisiocaris, an early arthropod that evolved from large predators to gentle suspension feeders. This finding highlights the productivity of the Cambrian period and provides insight into ancient ecosystems.
SU biologists use sound to identify breeding grounds of endangered whales
Researchers used remote acoustic monitoring to analyze North Atlantic right whale behavior and found that males produce a loud 'gunshot' sound mainly in autumn at night. The study confirms Roseway Basin as a vital habitat area for endangered whales, supporting conservation efforts to save this critically endangered species.
Passive acoustic monitoring reveals clues to minke whale calling behavior and movements
Scientists tracked 18 individual minke whales using passive acoustic monitoring, finding that each species uses a unique call sequence to interact with others. The findings provide insight into minke whale social interactions and migration patterns.
Whales, ships more common through Bering Strait
A study by the University of Washington's Applied Physics Laboratory reveals more detections of whales traveling through the Bering Strait. The research tracks Arctic beluga and bowhead whales as well as sub-Arctic humpback, fin, and killer whales using underwater microphones.
Satellites help spot whales
Researchers from British Antarctic Survey demonstrated a new method using Very High Resolution satellite imagery and image processing software to automatically detect and count whales breeding in the Golfo Nuevo, Peninsula Valdes. This semi-automated technique has been shown to achieve 89% accuracy in identifying probable whales.
Whales viewed from space
High-resolution satellite images successfully counted southern right whales off the Argentinian coast, using automatic detection methods that outperformed traditional manual detection. The study's findings suggest this new approach could be applied to other whale species and marine mammal populations.
Whales and human-related activities overlap in African waters
A WCS-led satellite tracking study found humpback whales share breeding waters with offshore oil rigs, major shipping routes, and toxicants off the coast of western Africa. The researchers identified new parts of the whales' breeding range and migratory routes to sub-Antarctic feeding grounds.
Researchers discover rare new species of deep-diving whale
Researchers have identified a new species of beaked whale, Mesoplodon hotaula, based on DNA analysis and physical characteristics of seven stranded specimens. The discovery sheds light on the elusive habits and low abundance of deep-diving whales in the world's oceans.
Orca's survival during the Ice Age
Researchers analyzed killer whale genomic data and found that populations declined during the last Ice Age due to a bottleneck effect, leading to low genetic diversity except in southern Africa's refuge population.
Strange marine mammals of ancient North Pacific revealed
Research by Robert Boessenecker uncovers a record of 21 marine mammal species from the San Francisco Bay Area's Purisima Formation, dating back 5-2.5 million years. A new species of fossil whale, Balaenoptera bertae, is discovered, closely related to minke and fin whales.
'Severe reduction' in killer whale numbers during last Ice Age
A global decline in killer whale numbers occurred approximately 40,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, with a bottleneck and loss of genetic diversity. The South African population remained genetically diverse, suggesting it escaped the bottleneck due to a stable Bengeula upwelling system.
Keeping whales safe in sound
Experts developed a step-by-step guide to minimize seismic survey impacts on whales and other marine species. The study presents the most thorough approach to minimizing and monitoring risk of harm during intense sound surveys, primarily used by oil and gas companies.
New study identifies 5 distinct humpback whale populations in North Pacific
A new study has identified five distinct humpback whale populations in the North Pacific Ocean, which could impact conservation efforts. The research used genetic analysis to determine population differences and migratory patterns.
Silent stalkers of dark ocean waters
Research suggests that killer whales eavesdrop on sounds generated by their marine mammal prey to locate and hunt them in dark waters. A two-year study in Alaska using acoustic recording tags found evidence of nighttime hunting, debunking previous assumptions about the animals' reliance on echolocation.
New genomic study provides a glimpse of how whales could adapt to ocean
The study provided evidence of stress-responsive genes and anaerobic metabolism in whales, which helped them adapt to ocean environments. The researchers also found that baleen-forming genes were pseudogenes in whales, suggesting a unique evolutionary path.
Assessing noise impact of offshore wind farm construction may help protect marine mammals
A new study assesses the impact of offshore wind farm construction on marine mammals, providing a framework to mitigate potential harm. The research focuses on harbor seals and could inform climate change targets while protecting endangered species.
Research confirms bottom-feeding behavior of humpback whales
Researchers confirm that humpback whales in the southern Gulf of Maine are spending most of their time on the ocean floor, contrary to previous thought. The study revealed three distinct types of bottom-feeding behaviors, including simple side-rolls and seafloor scooping.
Bats and whales behave in surprisingly similar ways
Researchers found that bats and toothed whales produce similar sounds for echolocation in the frequency range of 10-200 kHz. This convergent evolution helps them navigate and catch prey in their respective environments. The study reveals surprising similarities between these species, challenging traditional notions of adaptation.
Study maps human impacts on top ocean predators along US west coast
A new study reveals areas of high human impact on marine predators such as whales, seals, and turtles along the US west coast. The research used tracking data and mapping to identify key habitats and areas for conservation efforts.
Seeing in the dark
Scientists studied Yangtze finless porpoise hearing using medical technology to understand impact of constant shipping and construction on their critical sense of hearing. The research revealed variations in hearing sensitivity among different species, with implications for effective management strategies.
Killer whales may have menopause so grandma can look after the kids
Researchers suspect that killer whale menopause is related to the animals' social structure, where older females help protect and care for offspring and grandoffspring. The study aims to uncover why these whales evolved this trait, which may also shed light on human menopause.
Genetics used to sort out poorly known -- and hunted -- whale species
A study by Wildlife Conservation Society and others confirms the existence of two subspecies of Bryde's whales, one coastal and one offshore, with distinct genetic characteristics. The research informs the need to designate both subspecies as separate conservation units with specific management needs.
Rare research into false killer whales reveals anti-predator partnerships
A 17-year study off New Zealand's coast found all 61 false killer whales were linked in a single social network and associated with bottlenose dolphins for up to 5 years. These partnerships may provide mutual protection against predators through increased detection ability.
Research reveals bottom feeding techniques of tagged humpback whales in Stellwagen Bank Sanctuary
New research on tagged humpback whales reveals three distinct bottom feeding techniques: simple side-rolls, side-roll inversions, and repetitive scooping. These behaviors are common in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary and can lead to vulnerability to entanglement in fishing gear.
Baylor professors use whale earwax to develop new method to determine contaminant exposure in whales
Researchers used blue whale earplugs to extract and analyze chemicals, hormones, and stress levels, enabling the study of lifetime chemical exposures and hormone profiles. The new method provides valuable information on human impact on individual whales and marine ecosystems.
Pacific humpback whale abundance higher in British Columbia
Researchers found Pacific humpback whales increasing annually, doubling to 137 whales in 2011, with high survival rates among adults. The study highlights the importance of conservation efforts due to increased vulnerability during critical refueling stages.
Surprising underwater-sounds: Humpback whales also spend their winter in Antarctica
Biologists have discovered that a part of the Southern Hemisphere humpback whale population spends its entire winter in Antarctic waters. The whales use ice-free areas to survive the harsh winter months.
Whales feel the (sun)burn!
Researchers found that some whale species darken their skin with UV exposure, accumulating DNA damage, similar to humans. Fin whales, however, were resistant to sun damage, offering insights into evolutionary adaptations to counteract UV radiation.
Tests passed
Researchers developed an infrared camera system to automatically spot whales in the surrounding sea. The system uses a thermal sensor to detect temperature differences and software to analyze video streams for whale spouts.
Are North Atlantic right whales mating in the Gulf of Maine?
Scientists have found evidence that North Atlantic right whales mate in the Gulf of Maine, with a high proportion of potential mates aggregating there between November and January. The study used aerial surveys and genetics data to identify individuals and determine mating grounds, shedding light on the species' life history.
Killer whale genetics: Redefining stock structure in a marine top predator
A recent study by NOAA scientists reveals that distinct groups of killer whales gather seasonally and exhibit low levels of gene flow, indicating separate subpopulations. Genetic evidence suggests a revision to the current stock designations for killer whales in the western Gulf of Alaska and Aleutian Islands.
Military sonar can alter blue whale behavior
Researchers found that some blue whales changed their diving behavior or temporarily avoided important feeding areas when exposed to simulated mid-frequency sonar sounds. The responses were complex and depended on various factors, including the whales' depth of feeding and location.
Scientists use DNA from a museum specimen to study rarely observed type of killer whale
Scientists analyzed DNA from a New Zealand museum specimen to determine if it represents a new type of killer whale. The study found that the specimen separated from other killer whales approximately 390,000 years ago, suggesting it may be a separate subspecies or species.
Study shows how diving mammals evolved underwater endurance
Researchers at the University of Liverpool identified a distinctive molecular signature in myoglobin that allows diving mammals to store oxygen. This adaptation enables elite divers like sperm whales to hold their breath for over an hour, while land mammals can only hold theirs for a few minutes.