Dolphins Name Themselves
is encoded in its so-called signature whistle, according to a new study of bottlenose dolphins. The dolphins develop individually distinctive whistles that researchers have long suspected contain identity information.
On supporting science journalism
If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
is encoded in its so-called signature whistle, according to a new study of bottlenose dolphins. The dolphins develop individually distinctive whistles that researchers have long suspected contain identity information. Previous work had shown that dolphins recognize the calls of their relatives. But it was unclear whether the animals were responding to the caller's voice features, or the frequency modulation of the whistle. The new study indicates that it is the shape of the signature whistle--not the voice features--that carries the identity information, which would facilitate communication underwater, where voice recognition is difficult. Signature whistles may therefore be used as referential signals, either addressing other dolphins or referring to them--much as humans use names--the scientists observe. A paper detailing the findings is being published online this week by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
It’s Time to Stand Up for Science
If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.
I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.
If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.
In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.
There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.
