Sperm Whale says hi at 600m below sea level

Thread starter Ryan_m_b
Start date Apr 15, 2015
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Hi Sea level

In summary, sperm whales commonly dive to depths of 400-1,200 meters, but have been recorded diving as deep as 2,250 meters. They communicate at extreme depths using specialized vocalizations called "clicks" that can reach up to 230 decibels. Their ability to dive to such great depths allows them to hunt for their main prey, giant squid, and they have adaptations to survive the high pressure of the deep sea. While their populations are currently declining due to factors such as whaling and pollution, their deep diving behavior is not a significant threat to their survival at this time.

Apr 15, 2015

Ryan_m_b

Staff Emeritus

Science Advisor

Scientists operating an underwater ROV had a fantastic surprise when a sperm whale decided to come and check out the machine. Fantastic images and from nearly 600m below sea level!

Biology news on Phys.org

Apr 15, 2015

Greg Bernhardt

Admin

Insights Author

Fantastic! What a mysterious and wonderful world the deep sea is! Who needs mars!?

FAQ: Sperm Whale says hi at 600m below sea level

1. What is the average depth at which sperm whales can be found?

Sperm whales are known to commonly dive to depths of 400-1,200 meters, but have been recorded diving as deep as 2,250 meters.

2. How do sperm whales communicate at such extreme depths?

Sperm whales have specialized vocalizations called "clicks" that can travel long distances through water and are used for echolocation and communication. These clicks can reach up to 230 decibels, making them one of the loudest animals on Earth.

3. What is the purpose of the sperm whale's ability to dive to such great depths?

Sperm whales are deep-diving predators, and their ability to dive to extreme depths allows them to hunt for their main prey, giant squid, which can be found at depths of up to 1,000 meters.

4. How do sperm whales adapt to the high pressure of the deep sea?

Sperm whales have several adaptations that allow them to survive at extreme depths, including special enzymes in their blood that help prevent decompression sickness and collapsible rib cages that can withstand pressure changes.

5. Are sperm whales endangered due to their deep diving behavior?

Sperm whales are currently listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, with their populations declining due to factors such as whaling and pollution. While their deep diving behavior does come with some risks, it is not a significant threat to their survival at this time.