Similar to human language: scientists make unique discovery during study of humpback whale song

Language has always been considered a unique feature of humans that distinguishes them from other species. However, a new study has shown that humpback whale song has the same statistical structure as human speech.

Scientists have long known that whale songs are an example of culturally transmitted behavior, but there has been little evidence that they have a linguistic structure. As the researchers explain, human language, which is also transmitted through culture, contains repeated elements whose frequency of use follows certain patterns. Phys.

Using methods used to study language development in infants, the scientists analyzed eight years of recordings of humpback whale songs collected in New Caledonia. They found in these songs the same statistical structures that are inherent in all human languages.

This discovery reveals a previously unknown system of sound organization in whale songs, emphasizing the commonalities between two evolutionarily distant species. Humpback whales demonstrate the most striking example of socially learned behavior among non-human animals.

Until now, researchers have assumed that whale song has a systematic structure, but have not had enough evidence of its similarity to human language. One of the main difficulties in studying animal communication is identifying the significant elements of their communication systems.

As a result of the analysis, the scientists confirmed that whale songs contain the same statistical patterns that are characteristic of all human languages. They found repeated parts whose frequency follows an asymmetric distribution that has never been seen before in any other animal.

These findings challenge traditional notions of the uniqueness of human language and emphasize the deep commonalities between different species. Dr. Ellen Garland from the University of St. Andrews noted that this discovery points to the key role of cultural behavior in the evolution of complex communication among animals.

If you want to get the latest news about the war and events in Ukraine, subscribe to our Telegram channel!