Scientists Use AI to Decode Sperm Whale Sounds, Discover Alphabet and Complex Language

Scientists have utilized artificial intelligence (AI) to decode the intricate communication system of sperm whales, revealing an alphabet and a complex language. By analyzing over 4,000 hours of recordings, researchers discovered that sperm whales possess a sophisticated vocal repertoire consisting of distinct codewords. These codewords are combined in specific patterns, akin to an alphabet, to convey various messages. The study found that sperm whales employ a hierarchical structure, with higher-level sequences representing broader concepts or instructions. This groundbreaking discovery challenges the notion that complex language is unique to humans and provides insights into the cognitive abilities of these marine mammals. The findings suggest that sperm whales possess a level of intelligence and communication complexity previously underestimated, opening new avenues for understanding their social dynamics and behavior.

Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/scientists-ai-decode-sperm-whale-sounds-discover-alphabet-complex-language-2024-7