Dolphins are a type of aquatic mammal known for their highly developed brains, capable of complex social communication, learning, memory, problem-solving, tool usage, and more, making them one of the smartest animals on Earth.

So, why are dolphins particularly intelligent? This article will explore the mystery of dolphin intelligence from aspects such as their brain structure, evolutionary history, and living environment.

1. Dolphin Brain Structure

Relative to their body size, dolphins have exceptionally large brains. The brain of a dolphin constitutes about 2% of its body weight, compared to approximately 2.1% in humans, 1.3% in chimpanzees, 1.2% in dogs, and 0.9% in cats.

Some dolphin species, such as the killer whale and the sperm whale, even surpass humans in brain size. The killer whale's brain capacity is around 5900 cubic centimeters, the sperm whale's around 7800 cubic centimeters, whereas the human brain's capacity is approximately 1350 cubic centimeters.

Not only are dolphin brains large, but they are also complex. Dolphins' brains feature numerous convolutions and folds, indicating a greater number of neurons and synapses for more information processing and storage. The cerebral cortex of dolphins, responsible for higher cognitive functions, is even thicker than that of humans.

Dolphins also possess a unique region called the paralimbic lobe, which connects emotional and rational parts and may be associated with their social and emotional capabilities.

2. Dolphin Evolutionary History

Dolphins evolved from terrestrial mammals and share a common ancestor with even-toed ungulates. According to fossil records and DNA analysis, dolphins began transitioning to an aquatic lifestyle approximately 50 million years ago.

During this process, dolphins underwent various adaptive changes in their bodies and behaviors, such as:

- Shifting their nostrils to the top of their heads, forming blowholes for easier breathing.

- Developing a thick layer of blubber to maintain body temperature.

- Evolving a specialized echolocation system using sound waves to detect surrounding environments and prey.

These changes enabled dolphins to thrive and reproduce in aquatic environments and facilitated the development of their brains. On one hand, the aquatic environment presents more challenges and diversity than terrestrial habitats, requiring higher intelligence and creativity.

On the other hand, the aquatic environment also demands cooperation and coordination among dolphins, promoting their social and emotional capacities.

3. Dolphin Living Environment

Dolphins inhabit various marine and freshwater environments worldwide, with some species even able to survive in frigid polar waters. Dolphins are typically not solitary animals but live in groups, some of which can number in the hundreds or thousands.

Dolphins exhibit complex social structures and relationships, engaging in activities such as helping, protecting, playing, competing, mating, etc. Dolphins also interact with other species, such as whales, sea lions, sea turtles, and humans, engaging in cooperative hunting or games or participating in friendly interactions or collaborations with humans.

The living environment of dolphins enriches their experiences and knowledge, enhancing their adaptability and learning abilities. Dolphins can choose appropriate behavioral strategies and methods based on different contexts and goals.

For example, dolphins use tools or techniques like mud plumes, bubbles, or seaweed to capture prey; they mimic the sounds or movements of other dolphins or humans for learning or entertainment purposes; they utilize their vocalizations or body language to convey information or express emotions.

In studying dolphin intelligence, we cannot help but admire their outstanding cognitive abilities and social behaviors. With their immense and intricate brains, evolutionary history, and living environment, dolphins showcase remarkable intelligence and ingenuity.

However, dolphin intelligence also prompts reflection. Sharing the Earth with us as one of the smartest beings, we have a responsibility to protect their habitats and maintain the stability of marine ecosystems. By respecting and safeguarding dolphins, we are not only preserving a species but also safeguarding our shared home.