Dolphins learn how to use tools to hunt for fish from their mothers

Alexis L Levengood

doi:10.64628/AA.dk5nys6ye

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Dolphins learn how to use tools to hunt for fish from their mothers

Magazine article

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Dolphins learn how to use tools to hunt for fish from their mothers

Alexis L Levengood

The Conversation, Vol.11 August 2026

2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64628/AA.dk5nys6ye

Appears in The Conversation

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Abstract

dolphins

tool use

animal tool use

From spears and the invention of the wheel to smartphones and robots, human societies have been building and using tools from the beginning. Human tool use has served to conquer new environments, increase communication, and ultimately alter the course of human evolution. But humans are not alone in the use of tools. Our new study, published in the journal of Marine Mammal Science, shows dolphins can use seashells to help them hunt for fish. And they might be learning this clever tool use from their mothers.

Details

Title: Dolphins learn how to use tools to hunt for fish from their mothers
Authors: Alexis L Levengood - University of the Sunshine Coast
Publication details: The Conversation, Vol.11 August 2026
Publisher: Conversation Media Group
Date published: 2026
DOI: 10.64628/AA.dk5nys6ye
ISSN: 2201-5639
Copyright note: © The Conversation Media Group. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Organisation Unit: School of Science, Technology and Engineering; Centre for Bioinnovation
Language: English
Record Identifier: 991255195302621
Output Type: Magazine article

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