PMEL Innovations in Acoustics and eDNA Research to Study Blue Whales
April 13, 2022
The Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory’s ongoing research is developing technology to better understand blue whales by simultaneously collecting environmental DNA (eDNA) samples and recording acoustic calls through deploying drifting buoys with underwater hydrophones. PMEL developed software for the hydrophones’ microprocessors to analyze data using a blue whale call detection algorithm, tracking, locating, and pinging scientists the location the call was recorded. Upcoming fieldwork aims to improve interpretation of results. This is a collaboration between Oregon State University Marine Mammal Institute and Cooperative Institute for Marine Ecosystem and Resources Studies (CIMERS) and NOAA.