Subject: Bubble netting
Kim Marshall (kimm@oceanalliance.org)
Fri, 22 Oct 1999 09:38:14 -0400
Reply:
Dear Rose, Bubble netting is an interesting strategy for catching fish that
is employed by humpback whales. In a group of 5-15 whales, one whale will
submerge and shriek an eerie sound while blowing bubbles in a circle
formation. Individual whales and even larger groups employ this technique.
What happens is the fish become frightened and move close together. The
bubbles act like a corral so the fish can't escape. The whales move into
the bubble net and surface with their mouths wide open, taking in huge
gulps of fish-filled water. For more information in this subject contact
the Alaska Whale Foundation. I know they have a website. This
organization studies the fundamentals of this type of feeding. Thanks! Kim
Question:
> Years ago I was watching an educational program on television, the subject
>was bubble netting, I've looked in encyclopedias to try to learn more but
>have thus far been unsuccessful. If you have any info it would be helpful,
> Thanks Rose
>
Kim Marshall-Tilas
Whale Conservation Institute/Ocean Alliance
191 Weston Road
Lincoln, MA 01773
(781) 259-0423
fax: 259-0288
website: http://www.oceanalliance.org