Researchers have developed an innovative method to detect and track non-vocalizing whales, a significant challenge in marine population monitoring. Traditionally, whale tracking has relied on detecting their vocalizations, but many species, or individuals in certain situations, remain silent, hindering their study and conservation. This new approach focuses on detecting the subtle acoustic disturbances they generate in the water as they move, even when they are not emitting sounds.

The method employs a network of sensitive hydrophones that record pressure variations in the water. Through the analysis of these signals, it is possible to identify characteristic patterns associated with the movement of large cetaceans, distinguishing them from ambient noise. This passive acoustic technique allows for inferring the presence and displacement of whales without them needing to actively vocalize, opening new avenues for studying elusive species or poorly understood behaviors.

The relevance of this advance lies in its potential to improve population estimates and better understand the migratory and feeding patterns of whales that were previously difficult to monitor. By being able to detect silent whales, scientists can obtain a more complete picture of the distribution and behavior of these species, which is crucial for designing more effective conservation strategies and mitigating the impact of human activities on their habitats. This technology is expected to be applied in large-scale studies and long-term monitoring of marine populations.