There are 14 species of baleen whales, including blue whales, humpback whales, right whales, minke whales, and gray whales.
![Humpback whale in the sea. — Dana Wharf Sport Fishing and Whale Watching](https://www.geo.tv/assets/uploads/updates/2024-02-22/532150_8481501_updates.jpg)
The haunting songs sung by whales always intrigue people and make them wonder how these sounds are produced. This remains a mystery to this day.
Scientists have discovered that whales, including baleen whales, have developed unique “voice boxes” that allow them to sing underwater, producing haunting, complex songs. BBC It has been reported.
The findings were published as follows: natureIt also explains why ocean noise is so devastating to these giants.
Researchers created a computer model of baleen whale song, revealing that their song is restricted to specific frequencies that match ship noise.
“Sound is absolutely important for survival because it is the only way to mate in the sea,” explains Professor Coen Elemans from the University of Southern Denmark, who led the study.
“[These are some] “They are one of the most enigmatic animals that have ever lived on Earth,” he told the BBC. “They are among the largest animals, they are smart and very sociable.”
![Artwork representing the laryngeal cartilage of a humpback whale. — BBC via Patricia Jacqueline Matic](https://www.geo.tv/assets/uploads/updates/2024-02-22/532150_7413464_updates.jpg)
Baleen whales, comprised of 14 species including blue whales, humpback whales, right whales, minke whales, and gray whales, use baleen plates instead of teeth to filter mouthfuls of small creatures from the water.
“For example, you can’t simply choose to sing higher to avoid noise from the ocean,” Elemans explained.
Elemans' research shows that ocean noise can disrupt whale communication, potentially helping conserve endangered species such as humpback and blue whales.
The study also addresses long-standing questions about the eerie whale song, which sailors once believed was associated with ghosts or mythical sea creatures.
![A pod of humpback whales in the sea. — Unsplash](https://www.geo.tv/assets/uploads/updates/2024-02-22/532150_4388534_updates.jpg)
This study provides an evolutionary perspective on how whale ancestors returned to the sea and whales' adaptations for underwater communication.
We focused on toothed whales, including dolphins, killer whales, sperm whales, and porpoises, which make sounds through their unique nostril structures. Studying these animals is easier because they are easier to study.