Humpback whales are observed along the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, with skin actually visible as they move across the shore. Researchers from Griffith University have been tracking these animals to learn more about their journeys and behavior.
In a collaborative effort, Olaf Meinecke and colleagues attached CATS tracking devices to the whales’ skins to gather precise movement data. A companion camera installation at the CATS facility further enables researchers to document daily activities and interactions in the whales’ environment.
Findings reveal that the migrating whales from the Gold Coast region create grooves on the seafloor, sometimes reaching depths of about 49 meters. These grooves form in areas where the seafloor consists of fine sand or gravel, illustrating how whale activity can shape the underwater landscape over time. In warmer tropical and subtropical waters, a common occurrence is the attachment of small organisms to the whales, which must be managed regularly to keep swimming conditions optimal. Scientists interpret these behaviors as necessary actions to prevent overgrowth that could hinder movement and efficiency in the water.
Additionally, researchers observed the shedding of skin particles during specific movements along the sand, which at first glance resembles a cleansing experience. This natural interaction between the whales and their environment appears to have parallels with grooming rituals seen in other animal species, suggesting an ancient pattern of surface maintenance that later species may have adapted for their own use.
Beyond marine life, the text notes a broader medical observation: ancient biologists reported treating memory impairment in mice related to Alzheimer’s disease. This line of inquiry highlights the long-standing interest in understanding aging and cognitive decline across species and the potential insights that interdisciplinary study may bring to human health.