Perfect Depth for Swimming
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Regardless of the species, marine animals use specific strategies to conserve energy. In a recent study, researchers have found a common theme among these animals – they all swim at similar relative depths when traveling and not feeding.
The research, led by experts from Swansea University and Deakin University, highlights how marine species minimize energy loss by swimming in a precise “sweet spot” below the surface.
The study, led by Dr. Kimberley Stokes, Professor Graeme Hays, and Dr. Nicole Esteban, compared the swim depths of sea turtles, penguins, and whales across five countries.
The results showed that these animals consistently traveled at depths around three times their body size from the surface. This specific depth reduces the amount of energy that could be lost to wave formation and minimizes vertical travel distance – both of which contribute to efficient swimming.
https://www.earth.com/news/marine-animals-swim-at-the-perfect-depth-to-save-energy/