Dolphins & memories explored

A dolphin can remember another dolphin for 20 years, says study

By Nicole Hamer |

13:29 07 August 2013

When you think of a dolphin, the image of a splashing, clicking marine mammal may spring to mind. You might not think about dolphins in regards to the topic of memory.

A dolphin is able to recall another dolphin because of their call for at least 20 years, a study has said.

A dolphin’s call relates to a whistle.

The research is published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

The study looked at over 52 bottlenose dolphins at six different places in the US and Bermuda. It is understood the dolphins at these facilities are part of a captive-breeding programme.

It is also understood that the dolphins have met with each other at times relating to a certain period of time.

The research was carried out by Doctor Jason Bruck, of the University of Chicago.

“This shows us an animal operating cognitively at a level that's very consistent with human social memory.

“This is the kind of study you can only do with captive groups where you know how long the animals have been apart. To do a similar study in the wild could be almost impossible," said Doctor Bruck.

Dolphins are understood to be linked to whales and porpoises. There are many species of dolphins.