Q&A with Dr. Manuel Castellote: Listening to whales
Dr. Manuel Castellote shares his experiences studying whales and the importance of bioacoustics.
Ever since my childhood growing up in Spain, I’ve been interested in animals.
His interest in animals, particularly those in the ocean, led him to study marine biology and eventually bioacoustics.
Early Interest in Marine Biology
Castellote's fascination with the ocean and its inhabitants began at a young age, observing cats and later studying how animals live in the ocean environment.
The Importance of Sound for Marine Mammals
For marine mammals, sound is the dominant sense, as underwater visibility is often limited.
- Sound travels more easily and farther in water due to its density.
- In water, the fade of sound is much milder compared to air.
Author's summary: Dr. Manuel Castellote discusses his journey studying whales through bioacoustics.