If you thought humans were the only fishers who use nets, think again! Humpback whales work together to net and herd fish, making the fish easier to eat. But these whale nets are made of bubbles! To learn more, it’s time to blow some bubble nets ourselves.
Humpback whales use bubble nets to concentrate prey
Image: Christin Khan, NOAA / NEFSC
Bubble net feeding is a cooperative feeding technique used by humpback whales. It’s used to catch large groups of small fish and krill. Bubble nets are a technology that was invented by whales, and it is not instinctive – it needs to be learned.
Bubble net feeding usually requires multiple whales – at least two are needed, and groups of up to 60 have been observed. The net starts with several whales swimming in circles, blowing bubbles around the prey.
When everything is ready, one whale will call loudly to signal to the others that it’s time to feed. The whales all call loudly in response and rise up with mouths open, catching as many fish as they can. Whales can swim faster than bubbles rise, so the net is still in place while they feast.
Scientists are not sure exactly how bubble nets work. Fish could probably swim through a wall of bubbles, particularly if their lives depend on it. New research suggests that it’s not just bubbles keeping the prey confined. The calls that whales make while hunting might combine with the bubbles to make a wall of sound. Either way, it’s pretty amazing!
Watch a video of bubble net feeding in the Antarctic
Check out these whale poems
If you’re after more science activities for kids, subscribe to Double Helix magazine!
0 comments