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Sound travels 4-1/2 times faster in water than in air; therefore, sound verses sight plays a larger role under water ... dolphins rely on a superior "sound system" to navigate and seek out food in the dark and murky waters. This "sound system" is called sonar or echolocation, whereby dolphins send out an echo sound to locate something (i.e., fish food, a fellow dolphin, an obstacle) and then listen to the echo- which bounces back- to determine their objectives. (See diagram below.)
Dolphins also use sound, called signature whistles, to communicate and distinguish themselves from other dolphins--much like a human fingerprint or name.
Click on the links below to hear what dolphins sound
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