Researchers from the University of Washington have recently initiated a project in the Salish Sea, aimed at determining whether fiber-optic internet cables can be utilized to monitor the movements of endangered orcas. This innovative approach employs a technology known as Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), which enables these cables to function as continuous underwater microphones capable of detecting and tracking the vocalizations of orcas.
On October 10, 2025, a team of scientists deployed a 1.3-mile fiber-optic cable near San Juan Island, Washington. This experiment marks a significant step in efforts to understand and protect the approximately 75 remaining Southern Resident orcas, a population that has faced serious threats due to various environmental and human-induced factors.
Isabelle Brandicourt, a graduate student at the University of Washington School of Oceanography, was involved in preparing the fiber-optic cable for deployment. The research aims to assess the capability of internet cables to capture the vocalizations of orcas, providing valuable data for conservation efforts.
The deployment included the installation of a protective conduit around the fiber-optic cable, ensuring its integrity while submerged. The researchers hope that this method will yield better insights into orca behavior and habitat use, ultimately aiding in the species” preservation.
The Salish Sea, a crucial habitat for these orcas, has seen a decline in their population, prompting urgent calls for innovative monitoring solutions. By transforming standard fiber-optic cables into sophisticated listening devices, scientists aim to enhance their understanding of the challenges these marine mammals face.
This deployment represents a collaborative effort in marine research, reflecting a growing trend of using existing infrastructure to gather ecological data. The successful application of this technology could pave the way for similar monitoring initiatives worldwide, contributing to global biodiversity conservation efforts.
