Last Updated on 02/12/2024

We are annoyed by noise every day. The cars that pass us in the street are too loud, the neighbor’s dog barks too loud, rock concerts are too loud, and so on and so forth. However, it is the sea, the environment that is supposed to have the most calming effects on our nerves, that gives home to the largest and, at the same time, the loudest species on Earth: the blue whale.

Decibel is the unit used for measuring the level of sound pressure – the phenomenon we experience as loudness. To be able to understand the magnitude of the loudness of the whale’s sound, here are a few figures taken from everyday life:
Human speech usually stays in the 25-35 decibel range;
Any sound that is louder than 85 decibels damages our ears and causes hearing loss;
The sound of a power saw measured at 1 meter distance is around 110 decibels;
Sounds that are above 120-130 decibels cause unbearable pain;
The sound emitted by jet engines is around 140 decibels,
The loudest rock music peaks at about 150 decibels, while classical music is a bit lower, even when played at maximum, usually not exceeding 140 decibels.

Blue whales use sound as a communication tool and, according to some scientists, as a form of entertainment, too (though this theory has been often called untestable). Whales may be hundreds or even thousands of miles away from each other and their environment is characterized by very poor visibility, in most cases as low as 10 meters or even lower, so they use their strong call to inform other whales about their locations as well as to attract them. The sound emitted by whales is very loud, but very structured – that’s why scientists call it “whale song”.

Sound is known to travel much faster through water than through air – around 4.4 times faster in seawater than in our natural environment. It is also a fact that low-frequency sounds are faster than high frequency sounds and this is true for air and water as well. Blue whales make the most out of underwater acoustics: the sounds they emit are low-frequency, rumbling sounds. The characteristics of this deep song allows it to reach the furthest – according to some scientists, the song emitted by one whale can be heard by another located 10,000 miles away.

The sound production mechanism used by blue whales has not been completely mapped, but the most likely source is the whale’s larynx. Unlike humans, whales do not have vocal chords, so they probably produce sounds either by moving water from a part of their larynx, a tube-like extension, towards their nasal sacks close to the blowholes on their head, or by using their nasal plugs to make sound.

The Majestic Call of the Blue Whale: Unraveling the 188-Decibel Mystery

Dive into the depths of the ocean, and you might just catch the most profound concert of your life, headlined by none other than the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus). Known as the largest animals on the planet, these marine giants carry a voice that matches their colossal size. With calls reaching an astounding 188 decibels, blue whales can communicate across vast oceanic expanses, their songs resonating deep beneath the sea surface. But what makes these calls so powerful, and why are they crucial for the survival of these majestic creatures? This article peels back the layers of this aquatic enigma, offering a glimpse into the science and significance behind the blue whale’s formidable vocal prowess.

The Science Behind the Sound

The Anatomy of a Blue Whale’s Call

Diving into the anatomy of a blue whale’s call, it’s clear that these creatures are equipped with a unique set of biological tools that enable them to produce such powerful sounds. The mechanism involves air being pushed through their massive vocal cords, which, unlike humans, are controlled by the flow of air and not by muscular action. This process is akin to the way wind instruments produce sound, making the blue whale’s body an organic symphony of its own.

Deciphering Decibels: The Measure of Might

Understanding the sheer volume of a blue whale’s call requires a closer look at decibels as a unit of measurement. A blue whale’s call at 188 decibels is not just a number but a testament to the immense power behind each vocalization. To put it into perspective, this level of sound can easily outmatch a jet engine, showcasing the blue whale’s ability to produce one of the loudest sounds of any animal on Earth.

Communication Across the Depths

The Role of Sound in Marine Life

In the vast openness of the ocean, where light penetrates only so far, sound becomes the primary means of communication, navigation, and survival. Blue whales utilize their powerful calls to connect with one another, navigate through the dark waters, and even locate potential mates. This sonic communication network underscores the critical role of sound in the marine ecosystem, where visibility is limited.

Echolocation: Beyond Mere Calls

While blue whales are not known for echolocation in the same way dolphins are, their calls serve a similar purpose in navigating the deep blue. These low-frequency sounds can travel hundreds of miles underwater, allowing blue whales to map their surroundings, detect obstacles, and even sense the presence of prey or other whales. This capability highlights the sophistication of their vocal communication and its importance for their survival in the ocean’s depths.

The Impact of Human Activity

The Threat of Ocean Noise Pollution

The serene underwater world is increasingly being drowned out by the cacophony of human-induced noise pollution. Ship traffic, seismic surveys, and underwater construction contribute to a significant increase in ambient noise levels, which can disrupt the blue whales’ communication channels. This interference can lead to changes in feeding, mating, and migration patterns, posing a substantial threat to their population.

Conservation Efforts: Safeguarding the Giants

In response to the growing threat of noise pollution, various conservation efforts are being implemented to protect these marine behemoths. These include regulating ship speeds in crucial habitats, creating marine protected areas, and monitoring sound levels in the ocean. Such measures are essential in ensuring that the blue whales’ calls continue to resonate across the oceans, unimpeded by human activity.

Conclusion

The call of the blue whale, peaking at 188 decibels, is not just a fascinating phenomenon but a vital lifeline that connects these majestic creatures across the vastness of the oceans. Understanding the science behind these calls and the challenges they face due to human activity is crucial in appreciating and conserving these magnificent animals. As stewards of the planet, it’s our responsibility to ensure that the song of the blue whale endures for generations to come.

FAQs about the Call of the Blue Whale

1. Why can blue whale calls reach such high decibel levels?

Blue whale calls reach high decibel levels due to their large size and the unique structure of their vocal organs. Their calls need to be loud to communicate effectively over long distances in the ocean, where light is scarce, and sound is the primary means of communication.

2. How do blue whales use their calls?

Blue whales use their calls for various purposes, including communication with other whales, navigation, and possibly even mating rituals. These calls help them coordinate movements, locate each other, and navigate the vast oceanic expanse.

3. Can human activities affect blue whale communication?

Yes, human activities like shipping, drilling, and other sources of underwater noise pollution can significantly impact blue whale communication. These noises can interfere with their calls, making it harder for whales to communicate, find mates, or navigate effectively.

4. Are there efforts to protect blue whales from noise pollution?

Efforts to protect blue whales from noise pollution include regulating ship traffic, creating marine protected areas, and monitoring ocean noise levels. These measures aim to reduce the impact of human noise on blue whales and ensure their survival.

5. How can we help in conserving blue whales and their habitat?

We can help by supporting marine conservation organizations, advocating for policies that protect marine life from noise pollution, and being mindful of our impact on the oceans. Educating others about the importance of marine conservation can also contribute to the protection of blue whales and their habitat.