Dolphin civilization: why are scientists seriously considering this hypothesis? (7 photos)

Cetaceans are smart guys. And it’s not just about the size of the skull, but also about intellectual abilities. Conspiracy theorists will say that such brainy animals built their own underwater civilization a long time ago. They just carefully hide their super technologies from us! But real research says that... this may partially be true.





Hahahaha, how easy it is to carry them out. Our civilization will never be revealed!

What is culture and civilization? Social structure, some norms, customs, use of tools. Whales of different stripes have most of these points. Strong social connections are the norm for them. Most species live in large groups where older individuals pass on knowledge from generation to generation.



They pressure you with your intellect. I would like to have teeth.

For example, beluga whales, killer whales, narwhals and short-finned pilot whales are four of the six mammal species that undergo menopause. Do you know who the remaining two species are? Humans and chimpanzees! You may ask: how is the reproductive system related to civilization? Directly! From an evolutionary perspective, menopause is an unusual step. Why would an animal consume resources if it is no longer capable of producing offspring?





- Move on, friend, there is definitely no reasonable discussion here.

Then, to pass on your experience to the younger generation! Older females who are unable to conceive become “grandmothers.” They are midwives, nannies, educators, and teachers for “daughters” and “grandsons.” It is grandmothers who pass on traditions and culture to the younger generation.



Thanks to a well-coordinated team, killer whales are the only predators capable of hunting the great white shark.

Yes, yes, you heard right. Different groups of dolphins and killer whales develop different life hacks, hunting strategies, and food preferences. These are not innate skills of individual populations, they are something that cubs are taught from childhood. Knowledge is passed on through generations.



Look and remember, kids, these tiny land primates are our main competitors for world domination!

Animals even speak differently! Scientists have counted 44 species of dolphins whose language changes depending on where they live. In groups far from each other, special dialects and local “adverbs” appear. Flocks from different regions simply will not understand each other! Why don't you like culture, language and customs?



There has long been a practice where dolphins are allowed to draw in aquariums. Although these drawings are difficult to decipher, the animals are trying and clearly put some meaning into their creativity.

But underwater mammals are not destined to follow the path of humans. And all because they can't start a fire! Okay, just kidding. Dolphins cannot build empires, start wars, create works of art, build an economy, or think about conquering other planets, because they have paws! Or rather, fins. With such an anatomy, dolphins can use their tools exclusively with their mouths. Which is exactly what they do.



- Go ahead! I can't give you a high five!

For example, in order not to scrape their muzzle while searching for food at the bottom, cetaceans take a sponge into their mouths. They use stones to crush large fish and break shells of mollusks. But you won’t be able to make a compound tool - a spear or a hammer - with just your mouth. This means that no technical progress should be expected from them. Although, who knows, maybe they will accelerate their development and improve their telekinesis?