Hidden senses of cetaceans

Forty-five million years ago, cetaceans lived on land. Adapting to the marine element over the centuries, they have nevertheless kept from their distant past certain behavioural, physiological and sensory abilities that differentiate them from other aquatic species.
Off the coast of Spain, a team of researchers is studying a group of pilot whales to demonstrate that these animals have a sense of taste and smell and use them every day to communicate and feed. The outcome of this work would make it possible to participate in the preservation of these species, for example by keeping them away from danger zones such as fishing areas and shipping lanes.