How do marine animals sleep?

Sleeping underwater seems almost impossible for us to imagine, but it’s a fascinating reality for marine animals. Unlike humans, who can lie down and fully drift into deep sleep, these creatures have developed remarkable strategies to rest while staying alert and without ever running out of air.

Half-asleep: the case of dolphins and whales

Marine mammals like dolphins and whales need to regularly surface to breathe. To do this, they sleep in a very special way: only one hemisphere of their brain rests at a time, while the other remains active to control breathing and watch for potential threats. This is known as unihemispheric sleep. It also allows them to keep swimming slowly while they rest.

Sharks: always on the move?

Some sharks must keep moving constantly to push water through their gills and breathe. Their sleep looks more like a resting phase where their movements slow down but never stop completely. Other species, like reef sharks, can remain motionless on the sea floor, using the currents to breathe effortlessly.

Seals and sea lions: sleeping on land and in water

These animals live both on land and in the water. When they sleep at sea, they can float at the surface, take short dives, or even sleep underwater while instinctively coming up to breathe. On land, their sleep is deeper and more similar to ours.

Fish and other reef dwellers

For many fish, sleep means reduced activity and a slower metabolism. Some hide in crevices or bury themselves in sand to stay safe from predators while they sleep.

A lesson for us humans

These strategies show just how vital sleep is, even in the most challenging environments. As with marine animals, it’s not just about sleeping, but about sleeping in a way that fits your environment and your needs.

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