Repetition patterns in Weddell seal (Leptonychotes weddellii) underwater multiple element calls

摘要: Many vocalizations produced by Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) are made up of repeated individual distinct sounds (elements). Patterning multiple element calls was examined during the breeding season at Casey and Davis, Antarctica. Element interval durations were measured from 405 all > 3 elements in length. The duration (22+/-16.6 s) did not seem to vary with an increasing number (F4,404=1.83,p = 0.122) because decreased as within a call increased. Underwater showed seven timing patterns increasing, decreasing, or constant throughout calls. One type occurred six rhythm patterns, although majority exhibited only two rhythms. Some types also displayed steady frequency changes they progressed. seal rhythmically thus intervals occur regular manner. Rhythmical repetition used vocal communication likely enhances probability being detected has important implications for extent which can successfully transmit information over long distances times high level background noise.