Sharks May Have a Mysterious Form of Sound Production, Scientists Discover

For the first time, scientists are uncovering evidence that sharks may possess their own unique and enigmatic form of sound production, a phenomenon that has previously gone unnoticed. Traditionally known for their acute senses of smell, ability to detect electrical fields, and keen vision in dimly lit ocean waters, the idea of sharks producing sounds has been largely overlooked.

Carolin Nieder, a postdoctoral investigator at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), stumbled upon this discovery while studying how different types of sharks detect sound direction. While handling a rig shark in a tank, she unexpectedly captured underwater vocalizations described as “click… click… click… click.” This revelation challenged the long-standing belief that sharks are silent creatures.

Collaborating with researchers from the Université de Liège and the University of Auckland, Nieder’s findings shed light on the previously unknown acoustic capabilities of sharks. The revelation that rig sharks emit clicks underwater raises intriguing questions about the nature and purpose of these sounds.

Evolutionary Connections

Further research during a field study in 2022 revealed that other elasmobranch species, such as the mangrove whipray and the cowtail stingray, also exhibited clicking behavior when approached by divers. This evolutionary connection to sound production dates back millions of years, suggesting that sharks may have a shared ability to produce sounds.

While the exact function of these clicks remains a mystery, ongoing studies are investigating whether they serve as a form of communication, a stress response, or an anti-predator mechanism. The initial findings suggest that rig sharks may produce more clicks when handled, potentially as a reaction to stress or disturbance.

Unraveling the Mystery

Sharks detect sound through their inner ears and lateral line, but the mechanism behind sound production in rig sharks remains unclear. With no specialized organs for sound production, the clicks may be generated by the snapping of their teeth, given the unique structure of their jaws.

As Nieder’s research shifts towards coral reef restoration efforts using acoustic techniques, the study of shark sound production continues to intrigue scientists. The possibility that other shark species may also possess similar vocalization abilities opens up new avenues for exploration in understanding these fascinating marine creatures.

While much remains to be uncovered about shark sound production, the discovery of this previously overlooked aspect of their behavior highlights the complexity and diversity of these enigmatic predators.