by Orcas, also known as a killer whales, were documented using seacases to scratch each other’s back, according to a new study.
The researchers observed the marine mammals, the sections from Seatang loosened and then used them to massage their companions.
The process includes an Orka, which gives the end of a seabang, positions it between herself and a partner and then rolls the seaweed between its bodies for longer periods.
This fascinating behavior was described in a study guided by the Center for Whale Research (CWR) in cooperation with the University of Exeter.
The paper published in the magazine Current Biology is entitled: “Make and use wild killer whales and use Allogroming tools.”
Scientists discovered the behavior in drone shots of orcas based in South in the Salish Sea in the domestic waters of the US state of Washington.
Whales of all ages were participated in the production of tools in order to strengthen social bonds and promote the health of the skin, the researchers suggested.
The CWR research director Dr. Michael Weiss said the researchers were “amazed” when they noticed the behavior for the first time.
It is known that several types of whale are transformed into “Kelping” – Kelp with their heads, fins and bodies – probably for playing or possibly removing parasites and maintaining healthy skin.
The new discovery, which is referred to as “allokelping”, is different because the sea tang is selected, trimmed and manipulated by two whales.
Dr. Weiß added: “Bull Kelp stem is firm, but flexible, like a filled garden hose with a slippery outside area. I suspect that these features make it an ideal foster tool.
“What I find remarkable about this behavior is how widespread it is among the population.
“Males and females of all phases of life and pods living from all three south were used in this way. All evidence indicates that it is an important part of their social life.”
The team observed the allokelping on eight of 12 days in the study and suspected that this behavior can be universal in this population.
The whales were most likely with tight relatives of mothers and those of similar age to Allokelp.
Rachel John, a Masters student who studies animal behavior at the University of Exeter, said: “This walepopulation has been officially examined for 50 years. The best orcas on the planet and nevertheless important new discoveries can be made.
“We had not noticed beforehand that the videos that were collected from our previous aircraft were not high enough, but the film material we are getting now shows in detail.”
Professor Darren Croft from the University of Exeter and CWRS Executive Director said for the possible reasons for the allokelping and said: “We know that touch is really important.
“For primates – including people -, moderates touch and helps to build relationships.
“We know that killer whales are often in contact with other members of their group – touch their bodies and fins – but this experience can improve this experience.
“It could also be important for the health of the skin. Whales and dolphins have a variety of strategies that help them reduce dead skin, and this can be a further adjustment for this purpose.
“Brownalgaes like Bull Kelp also have antibacterial and anti -inflammatory properties that can offer the whales further advantages.”
Professor Croft said that the researchers were working on confirming the first results and “examining the social and up -to -first benefits of this behavior”.
Other orcas are known for rubbing their bodies on smooth stone beaches, possibly dead skin and parasites, but the whales based in the south were not seen.
The study of the study included the British Natural Environment Research Council and the Orca Fund, a Wild Fish Conservancy created and managed by the Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment.
