'Alien’ Sounds from Deepest Ocean Trench is Finally Solved After 10 Years

 

USE THIS VIDEO (few seconds) IN THE START TO HEAR THE SOUND OF DEEP OCEAN Than Start the narrator : 
https://www.thesun.co.uk/tech/30552787/mystery-alien-song-heard-deepest-earth-solved-mariana-trench/

In 2014, researchers conducting an acoustic survey near the Mariana Trench—the deepest part of the world's oceans—recorded an unusual and eerie sound that baffled scientists for years. Dubbed the "biotwang," this mysterious noise combined deep moaning tones with high-pitched, metallic-sounding pings, reminiscent of sound effects from science fiction films. Despite extensive analysis, the source of the biotwang remained unidentified, leading to various speculations about its origin.

A decade later, in 2024, a collaborative effort between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Google AI has finally unraveled the mystery. Through advanced machine learning techniques, researchers have determined that the enigmatic biotwang is a unique vocalization produced by Bryde's whales (Balaenoptera edeni), a species of baleen whale known for its elusive nature.

The biotwang was first detected during an acoustic survey conducted by Oregon State University using autonomous seagliders in the Mariana Archipelago. This sound stood out due to its distinctive structure: a deep, moaning component followed by a series of high-frequency metallic pulses. The unique acoustic signature led scientists to nickname it "biotwang." Initial hypotheses suggested that the sound might be biological in origin, possibly from a baleen whale, but the lack of visual confirmation left the theory unproven.

Bryde's whales are medium-sized baleen whales that inhabit warm, temperate oceans worldwide. They are known for their reclusive behavior, often traveling alone or in small groups, and are less studied compared to other whale species. These whales produce a variety of vocalizations, primarily low-frequency moans and pulses, which they use for communication and navigation. However, the biotwang did not match any previously recorded sounds attributed to Bryde's whales, adding to the enigma.

To solve the mystery, NOAA scientists collaborated with Google AI to develop a machine learning model capable of analyzing vast amounts of underwater acoustic data. The model was trained to recognize specific whale calls, including the biotwang, by converting audio recordings into visual representations called spectrograms. This approach allowed the AI to efficiently sift through over 200,000 hours of recordings collected from hydrophones deployed across the central and western North Pacific. The use of AI significantly expedited the analysis process, reducing what would have taken humans years to mere hours. 

In 2018, during a month-long visual and acoustic survey in the Mariana Archipelago, researchers observed ten groups of Bryde's whales. In nine of these encounters, the whales were recorded producing the biotwang sound. This strong correlation provided compelling evidence that Bryde's whales were indeed the source of the mysterious noise. Further analysis revealed a consistent seasonal presence of biotwangs in the Mariana Archipelago and as far east as Wake Island, suggesting a specific migratory pattern for this population of Bryde's whales. 

The identification of the biotwang as a Bryde's whale call has significant implications for understanding the species' behavior and distribution. The unique nature of the biotwang suggests it may serve a specific purpose, possibly related to mating or navigation. The seasonal occurrence of these calls indicates migratory patterns that were previously undocumented. This discovery also highlights the potential of integrating artificial intelligence into marine biology research, offering a powerful tool for analyzing large datasets and uncovering patterns that are not readily apparent through traditional methods.

The successful application of AI in identifying the biotwang sets a precedent for future acoustic monitoring efforts. As ocean noise increases due to human activities, understanding and cataloging marine animal vocalizations become crucial for conservation efforts. Machine learning models can be trained to detect and monitor various species, providing real-time data on their presence and movements. This technological advancement enables more effective management and protection strategies for marine life, particularly for elusive species like Bryde's whales.

The decade-long mystery of the biotwang serves as a testament to the challenges and rewards of marine acoustic research. Through the innovative use of artificial intelligence and collaborative efforts, scientists have not only identified the source of a previously unexplained sound but also gained deeper insights into the behavior of a little-known whale species. This achievement underscores the importance of technological integration in scientific research and opens new avenues for exploring the hidden depths of our oceans.