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Published on: May 10, 2019
Beaked whale auditory evoked potential hearing measurements
Mandy L H Cook1, René A Varela, Juli D Goldstein
1College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5016, USA. mhill@marine.usf.edu
Summary
This study measured the hearing abilities of a stranded beaked whale using auditory evoked potentials. Results show beaked whales are sensitive to high-frequency sounds, similar to other toothed whales.
Area of Science:
- Marine biology
- Bioacoustics
- Auditory neuroscience
Background:
- Mass strandings of beaked whales are linked to military sonar use.
- There are significant knowledge gaps regarding beaked whale hearing sensitivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure the hearing abilities of a stranded juvenile beaked whale (Mesoplodon europaeus).
- To understand the impact of anthropogenic noise on beaked whale populations.
Main Methods:
- Auditory evoked potentials (AEPs) were used to measure hearing.
- Modulation rate transfer function (MRTF) and envelope following response (EFR) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- The beaked whale responded to amplitude modulation rates up to 1,800 Hz.
- Hearing sensitivity was highest for high-frequency signals (40-80 kHz).
- Responses to low frequencies (5 kHz) were reduced.
Conclusions:
- Beaked whale hearing sensitivity is comparable to other odontocetes (toothed whales).
- Findings provide crucial data for assessing sonar impacts on beaked whales.
