Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: Scientists have uncovered a fascinating aspect of sperm whale communication: their complex vocalizations resemble Morse code, hinting at a sophisticated “phonetic alphabet.”
These whales, renowned for their social nature, use clicking sounds called codas to convey messages. Research on sperm whales in the eastern Caribbean revealed a rich communication system akin to human language.
Sperm whales are the largest toothed whales, predominantly observed in polar regions. They inhabit deep open waters and coastal areas, facing threats such as vessel strikes and entanglement in fishing gear. Listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN and under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 in India, they require conservation efforts to safeguard their populations.
