A team of French and American researchers using hydrophones recorded the noise emitted by European spiny lobster (Palinurus elephas). It turned out that their relatives can hear these signals at a distance of almost three kilometers.
The 24 major spiny lobster off the coast of France, where the shallow water was placed a chain of hydrophones. Scientists have discovered that lobsters emit a “rattle” rubbing his antenna whiskers on the area below the eye, resembling a rasp. The sounds are used for communication or for warning of approaching predators.
However, the range of distribution of the sounds they are not Champions among the sea creatures. The density of sea water (compared to air) facilitates the transfer of sound over relatively long distances. For example, sperm whales and dolphins will give the spiny lobster a serious handicap.
According to the researchers, the ability to hear the lobsters at large distances opens up the possibility to control the location and regulate the population.
Source — Scientific Reports