todropscience: DID YOU KNOW RESEARCHES CAN STUDY WHALES FROM SPACES? Scientists have used detailed h
todropscience: DID YOU KNOW RESEARCHES CAN STUDY WHALES FROM SPACES? Scientists have used detailed high-resolution satellite images to detect, count and describe fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Ligurian Sea, humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) off Hawaii, southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) off Península Valdés in Argentina, and gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) in Laguna San Ignacio, Mexico, in one of their known aggregation areas, where individuals come together to congregate. Researchers can study whales in remote and inaccessible places, in order to monitor population changes and understand their behaviour. Behavioral and morphological differences made some species more distinguishable than others. Fin and gray whales were the easiest to discern due to their contrasting body coloration with surrounding water, and their prone body position, which is proximal to the sea surface. Studing whales from space shows the feasibility of using satellital images when monitoring great whales. Photo: Grey whales spotted off the coast of Mexico. Credit: DigitalGlobe. Reference (Open Access): Cubaynes et al., 2018. Whales from space: Four mysticete species described using new VHR satellite imagery. Marine Mammal Science [Image description: aerial view of 4 whales swimming near the surface of a quiet sea. A boat is close of them, and have nearly the same size] -- source link
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