Reproductive Tactics in Baleen Whales

Abstract

AbstractWhile a variety of reproductive tactics are readily witnessed in odontocetes, such behaviors can be far more elusive in baleen whales and in some cases are yet to be observed. This leads researchers to study the reproductive behaviors in mysticetes using a variety of research methods which have improved greatly in recent years. Genetics and genomics tools can provide valuable information on maternity, paternity, age, diversity, and kinship, while acoustic tools can provide new insights into the function of sexual displays such as song. In this chapter, we explore what is known about reproductive strategies and tactics of baleen whales, with a particular focus on the comparatively well-studied right whales (Eubalaena spp.) and humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae). Finally, we showcase that by integrating multiple data types, we can explore the interactions between anatomy, physiology, reproductive success, age, population dynamics, and acoustic displays to better understand the mating systems of baleen whales.