Sperm whale dialect evolution in the Mediterranean Sea

Culture is often thought of as a human trait, but recent research indicates that many animals have rich and varied cultures. Sperm whales have culturally-based population structure, with groups of whales that share vocal dialects interacting to form clans. In the Tropical Pacific and Eastern Caribbean, multiple clans occupy the same waters. In contrast, only one dialect has been recorded in the Mediterranean Sea. With the support of Mitacs, I am using a long-term acoustic dataset to determine if and how the Mediterranean sperm whale clan dialect has changed over time. By comparing results from the Mediterranean with those from the Tropical Pacific and Eastern Caribbean, I will investigate dialect evolution on a global scale. This research will expand what we know of Mediterranean sperm whales: an endangered but understudied population. A better understanding of sperm whale dialect evolution will ultimately help incorporate cultural diversity into sperm whale management plans.

Faculty Supervisor:

Hal Whitehead

Student:

Partner:

University of St Andrews

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

Dalhousie University

Program: