Characterization of lipids in adipose depots associated with minke and fin whale ears : comparison with “acoustic fats” of toothed whales

Abstract

In an underwater environment where light attenuates much faster than in air, cetaceans have evolved to rely on sound and their sense of hearing for vital functions. Odontocetes (toothed whales) have developed a sophisticated biosonar system called echolocation, allowing them to perceive their environment using their sense of hearing (Schevill and McBride 1956, Kellogg 1958, Norris et al. 1961). Echolocation has not been demonstrated in mysticetes (baleen whales). However, mysticetes rely on low frequency sounds, which can propagate very long distances under water, to communicate with potential mates and other conspecifics (Cummings and Thompson 1971).