Culture & Entertainment · India Bureau
Sharks detect low-frequency sounds from 240 metres away, study finds
Researchers have discovered that blacktip sharks can perceive acoustic signals from distances exceeding 240 metres, using directional hearing to navigate their marine environments. The findings reveal how these predators rely on sound detection as a critical sensory mechanism in the ocean.
LSN India ·
A study by marine scientists has demonstrated that wild blacktip sharks possess sophisticated hearing capabilities, detecting low-frequency sounds from up to 240 metres away—a distance significantly greater than previously documented. The research highlights the importance of acoustic perception in shark behaviour and navigation within aquatic ecosystems.
When exposed to sound sources, the sharks exhibited sharp directional responses, turning sharply toward or away from acoustic stimuli. This directional hearing ability suggests that sharks utilise sound cues to locate prey, identify predators, and navigate their territorial waters, adding another dimension to understanding their sensory perception.
The findings contribute to broader scientific understanding of how apex predators interact with their environment. Low-frequency sound travels efficiently through water, making it a reliable communication and navigation tool for marine species operating in conditions where visual cues may be limited.
The research carries implications for marine conservation and fisheries management across coastal regions. Understanding shark sensory capabilities may inform strategies for protecting both shark populations and human interests in shared marine spaces, particularly in areas where human activity generates underwater noise that could affect shark behaviour and movement patterns.