As avid readers at Cetacean Research Technology, we have enjoyed the opportunity to explore a wide range of books that delve into the topics of cetaceans, conservation efforts, and our connection to nature. Whether you are a researcher, environmentalist, or nature enthusiast, these are books we have recently read that we'd like to share. They are suggested for anyone looking to expand their scientific knowledge or simply be inspired.
by: Karen Bakker
The Sounds of Life
This was an informational and enjoyable read about how groundbreaking technology has revealed communication among the variety of living beings that we share this planet with. I gained new perspective on the research and conservation efforts that can be attained with digital technology such as hydrophones. As an example, researchers are making a dictionary of sperm whale communication, and using sound to promote coral reef regeneration.
by: Peter Wohlleben
The Hidden Life of Trees
Nature is healing. This book presents evidence about how communities of trees support each other - sharing nutrients, interacting, and protecting one another. It explores the science of how trees communicate through fungal networks, chemical signals, and sound. Among the fascinating discoveries is that roots crackle at 220 hertz, and seedling roots orient their direction toward this frequency suggesting that they "hear" it. If you want to continue your journey after this book, you can pick up a geophone for your own experiments or watch the Apple TV documentary based on the book and starring the author.
by: Ed Yong
An Immense World
I feel like this book completely restructured how my brain views the natural world of animal perception and communication. Highly recommend this book.
From An Immense World: “A moth will never know what a zebra finch hears in its song, a zebra finch will never feel the electric buzz of a black ghost knifefish, a knifefish will never see through the eyes of a mantis shrimp, a mantis shrimp will never smell the way a dog can, and a dog will never understand what it is to be a bat. We will never fully do any of these things either, but we are the only animal that can try.”