Acoustically derived growth rates of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) in Kaikoura, New Zealand.

摘要: A non-invasive acoustic method for measuring the growth of sperm whales was developed based on estimating length individuals by inter-pulse interval (IPI) their clicks. Most prior knowledge in male has come from fitting curves to data gained whaling. Recordings made at Kaikoura, New Zealand, were used estimate and 32 photographically identified, resident that have been recorded repeatedly between 1991 2009. All more than six months apart (n = 30) showed an increase IPI. Using established relationships IPI total length, it found average rate Kaikoura population is lower, especially smaller (13–14.5 m), derived historical whaling other populations. This difference may be due ecological differences among populations but might also reflect upward bias measurements The ability track through time only possible via non-lethal means offers a fundamentally different kind because can measured.