Energetic and physical limitations on the breaching performance of large whales

摘要: The considerable power needed for large whales to leap out of the water may represent single most expensive burst maneuver found in nature. However, mechanics and energetic costs associated with breaching behaviors remain poorly understood. In this study we deployed whale-borne tags measure kinematics test hypothesis that these spectacular aerial displays are metabolically expensive. We use variable underwater trajectories, high-emergence breaches faster require more energy than predatory lunges. approach upper limits vertebrate muscle performance, cost is high enough repeated events serve as honest signaling body condition. Furthermore, confluence contractile properties, hydrodynamics, speeds required likely impose an limit size effectiveness whales.