Shape-Shifters.

ANIMAL cognition; ANIMAL communication; ADIPOSE tissues

A recent study has found that beluga whales use their forehead "melon" to convey expressions similar to facial expressions. Researchers observed four beluga whales at Connecticut's Mystic Aquarium for over 200 hours and documented five distinct melon morphs used repeatedly in various situations. While cautioning against ascribing meaning to the shapes at this stage, the lead author of the study suggests that the movements may be intentional communication. Other experts in the field believe that the study is a good first step in understanding facial displays in belugas, but more research is needed to determine if these melon shapes are specific to all belugas or just a particular population. [Extracted from the article]

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