Flukes of cetaceans are capable of absorbing energy from ocean waves for propulsion. The extent of this energy absorption is demonstrated by considering the flukes of an immature fin whale, Balaenoptera physalus. In a fully developed seaway corresponding to a wind speed of 20 knots (around Beaufort force 5) and at a low swimming speed, of 2.5 m s-1, this whale was able to absorb up to 25% of its required propulsive power in head seas and 33% of propulsive power in following seas. Consequences of wave-energy absorption for energetics of cetacean migrations are discussed.

中文翻译：

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海浪吸收的能量：鲸类的免费乘车。

鲸类的能够吸收海浪中的能量进行推进。通过考虑未成熟的长须鲸（Balaenoptera physalus）的吸虫来证明这种能量吸收的程度。在一条完全发达的航海中，风速为20节（大约是博福特力5），在低游泳速度下为2.5 m s-1，这条鲸鱼能够吸收高达其头部所需动力的25％以及随后海域中33％的推进力。讨论了波能吸收对鲸类迁徙能量的影响。