Humpback Whales Blow Poloidal Vortex Bubble Rings

Summary: This study presents the first detailed documentation of poloidal vortex bubble rings created by humpback whales. Analysis of 12 events involving 11 individual whales revealed 39 rings, produced in various contexts—primarily during inquisitive behavior, occasionally while feeding, and rarely at rest. Most rings were released near boats or swimmers, suggesting a possible communicative or playful function rather than aggression or foraging. The findings expand current understanding of humpback whale behavior and highlight the potential for complex, non-acoustic interspecies interactions, reinforcing the need for further research into cetacean cognition and communication.

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