Hitching a ride: the formation locomotion strategy of dolphin calves

摘要: Summary 1. Formation locomotion theoretically provides energy savings and it is evident across diverse taxa. Echelon position, described in cetacean (dolphin whale) mother‐infant dyads as calf very close proximity of its mother’s mid-lateral flank, may be a type formation that hydrodynamic benefits for the calf. Until now, difficulties associated with assessing swimming energetics marine mammals have precluded empirical quantifications these benefits. 2. Through kinematic analyses, this study demonstrates empirically 0‐1 month-old dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus ) calves echelon position are afforded locomotor advantages by increased swim performance concurrent reductions effort. 3. Compared to periods independent swimming, showed 28% increase average speed reduced effort during stroke phases, 22% reduction fluke amplitude 19% distance per stroke. 4. In addition, spent over third their time gliding while no glide phases were observed independently calves. 5. The enable calves, which extremely limited performance, maintain mothers travel, vital infant survival. 6. This adds data regarding economy animals.