Ethology and Behavioral Ecology of Mysticetes

Baleen whales are the largest animals to have ever lived on Earth, with the lowest and most intense voices on Earth. They migrate thousands of kilometers between feeding and breeding areas and produce songs and calls that serve as behavioral foundations for establishing, maintaining, and expanding their cultural identities. This book synthesizes current knowledge on baleen whales, highlighting the phenomenal increase in scientific knowledge achieved through technological advancements and recognizing the impacts of human-made activities on ocean acoustic environments and the resultant influences on the health and survival of individual whales and their populations. Baleen whale science is still in its infancy, with many profound revelations awaiting discovery by young, multi-talented explorers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 03 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Baleen whales, the largest creatures to have ever graced our planet, possess not only immense size but also the lowest and most profound vocalizations found on Earth. These remarkable adaptations, believed to have evolved to optimize ocean acoustic transmission, enable them to communicate across vast ocean basins. Some baleen whales have the remarkable lifespan of 150 to 200 years, undertaking remarkable migrations covering thousands of kilometers between feeding and breeding grounds. In addition to their physical prowess, these magnificent creatures produce intricate songs and calls that serve as the foundation for their cultural identities, fostering social connections, maintaining relationships, and expanding their communities.

While we have made significant strides in understanding the behavioral boundaries of these large-brained, long-lived animals, it would be foolish to assume that we have fully grasped their intricate complexities and natural histories. As baleen whale scientists, we are still in the early stages of unraveling the vast tapestry of these remarkable creatures.

The journey through this book will take readers on a captivating exploration, from delving into the intricate anatomy of baleen whale laryngeals that contribute to their diverse vocalizations to discovering the vast oceanic realms over which their voices resonate and the emerging intricacies of their culturally defined societies. The chapters are accompanied by insightful discussions on the fundamental ethological contexts of socializing, migrating, and foraging, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding the behavior of these magnificent marine mammals.

Two overarching themes permeate the pages of this book. The first theme underscores the remarkable strides in scientific knowledge achieved through technological advancements. The advancements in underwater acoustics, satellite tracking, and other cutting-edge technologies have opened up new avenues for studying baleen whales, shedding light on their migratory patterns, social interactions, and foraging behaviors. These technological breakthroughs have enabled researchers to gather data at unprecedented scales, providing a deeper understanding of the intricate lives of these iconic creatures.

The second theme emphasizes the profound connection between baleen whales and their environment. These magnificent animals play a critical role in shaping the marine ecosystems they inhabit, regulating the abundance of prey species, and influencing the carbon cycle through their respiration. Understanding the ecological significance of baleen whales is essential for preserving the health and balance of the oceans we rely on.

In conclusion, this book offers a captivating and comprehensive exploration of baleen whales, the largest animals to have ever lived on our planet. Through the expertise of an international team of leading marine mammal scientists, readers will gain a deep understanding of these remarkable creatures' physical characteristics, vocalizations, cultural identities, and ecological significance. The book highlights the remarkable advancements in scientific knowledge achieved through technological advancements and emphasizes the importance of preserving the health and balance of the oceans we rely on. As baleen whale scientists, we continue to unravel the mysteries of these magnificent animals, and this book serves as a valuable resource for researchers, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to better understand the wonders of the marine world.

Weight: 764g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030984489
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022