Scientists have finally revealed the source of a strange “quacking” sound coming from the oceans that has remained a mystery for a long time. This unusual sound, called “bio-duck”, is heard in the Southern Ocean during winter and spring and has caused controversy in the scientific world for decades.
Researchers identified the source of this sound as a result of detailed studies they conducted in the unknown waters of Antarctica: Antarctic Minke whales. Analysis with underwater acoustic devices has solved the mystery of the unique sound these small whales make near the surface before their deep dives.
A 50-Year-Old Acoustic Mystery Is Being Solved
“Bio-duck” The sound known as the name was first detected by submarines 50 years ago. These low-frequency, repetitive sounds baffled submarine personnel and scientists.
When sounds were first heard, it was thought that these signals coming from the deep sea were unnatural. Over the years, various theories have been put forward as to the source of this strange echo. Some researchers suggested that the sound was produced by fish, while others suggested that it was produced by ships.
But in 2013 Antarctic Minke whalesAcoustic monitoring devices installed on the ship played a key role in solving this mystery. Dr. from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Denise Risch made the following statement regarding the accuracy of the findings: “Various theories have been put forward over the years, but this is the first time we have proven that this species actually makes this sound.”
In her statement on the subject, Denise Risch stated that these sounds spread in a low-frequency, regular rhythm. Risch, “The sounds were so regular and mechanical that it was difficult to associate them with animals when you first heard them.” he said.
Decoding the Language of Antarctic Whales
Researchers, minke whalesIt is not yet fully understood under what conditions they make these sounds. However, it was determined that the sounds were generally recorded close to the surface and were produced just before the whales dived to feed.
Dr. Risch stated that this discovery is an important step in understanding the migration routes and behavior of mink whales and made the following statement: “We can use passive acoustic monitoring methods to study this species. “It will allow us to better understand their migration patterns, movements in Antarctica and abundance rates in different regions.”
Hydrophones and Tracing Sounds
To detect these unusual sounds, scientists used an array of hydrophones equipped with underwater acoustic systems. This system made it possible to distinguish the source of the sound and different “speakers”. Chapman said about this:
“We found that different speakers make the same types of sounds at different points in the ocean. But the most surprising thing was that when a conversation started, the others remained completely silent. “It was as if they were waiting for their turn.”
Underwater acoustics expert Ross Chapman from Victoria University, who conducted the research, presented a possible scenario and said: “Perhaps they were talking about food, perhaps the parents were communicating with their offspring, or perhaps they were discussing the movements of a strange ship passing over them.”
PALAOA Station and Future Research
The scientists plan to learn more by analyzing long-term recordings from the Alfred Wegener Institute’s PALAOA acoustic station in Antarctica. This data can provide valuable information about the migration timing and regional movements of minke whales.
“Bio-duck” The mystery is not the only unusual acoustic phenomenon that scientists have managed to unravel. Low frequency waves previously recorded in Antarctic waters “bloop” It was determined that another mysterious sound called icebergs was caused by the cracking sounds of icebergs.
These strange melodies coming from the depths of the oceans not only open a window to the unknown world of the seas, but also call humanity to an adventure full of discovery.
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