New acoustic techniques for detecting, tracking and examining the blue whale in Antarctica (Balaenoptera musculus) have allowed up to 26,545 songs of this cetacean to be recorded, captured hundreds of kilometers underwater.

In January, 18 professionals traveled to the Ross Sea for seven weeks to locate acoustic devices and establish studies of the population, distribution and behavior of blue whales. In this way, a total of 626 hours of sounds of this large cetacean have been obtained, including 26,545 songs of specimens, which has also allowed the position of the whales to be triangulated from the vocalization so that the researchers could go towards them. On the other hand, the team of scientists has managed to collect 57 identification photographs, 23 biopsies, and the labeling of devices via satellite to two specimens, through which data on their movements and feeding patterns can be obtained.

The success of this project lies in the fact that the research actions include non-lethal techniques for the species, which can measure more than 30 meters long and weigh up to 180 tons.

The Antarctic Blue Whale Project has had professionals from several countries such as Germany, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, the United States, France, Norway, the United Kingdom, South Africa and New Zealand. The results will be shared with the International Whaling Commission in order to contribute to the conservation of the blue whale population in Antarctica, whose current population, according to the Commission, is between 400 and 1400 specimens.

If you want to know more information about the Antarctic Blue Whale Project click here.