male amazon river dolphin pee
Male Amazon river dolphins pee into the air, confusing scientists
Researchers say they have made a startling discovery in the Amazon River. But their evidence wasn't collected from the water--it could be seen from shore. After around 219 hours of observations, they can confirm that male Amazon river dolphins (Inia geoffrensis), also known as botos, often roll onto their backs and urinate over three feet into the air. The male botos appear to be peeing with a purpose. Over four years, a team from Canada's CetAsia Research Group traveled to the Amazon river, where they then closely watched river dolphin social interactions. Researchers documented a total of 36 separate instances of male botos deciding to pee while floating in the unconventional position.
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