Seals have a unique superpower in their ears, and we finally know how it evolved - The Conversation
Researchers have published a study in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B explaining the evolutionary development of amphibious hearing in seals. This unique biological adaptation allows seals to hear effectively both in air and underwater.
Why it matters
Understanding the evolutionary biology of marine mammals provides insights into how species adapt to extreme environmental transitions.
Art by Jaime Bran Seals have a unique superpower in their ears, and we finally know how it evolved Published: July 14, 2026 7:03pm EDT https://theconversation.com/seals-have-a-unique-superpower-in-their-ears-and-we-finally-know-how-it-evolved-287072 https://theconversation.com/seals-have-a-unique-superpower-in-their-ears-and-we-finally-know-how-it-evolved-287072 Link copied Share article Share article
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Have you ever tried to talk to someone while underwater? No matter how loud you might shout, it always sounds muffled. But why? As with many things in our bodies, the answer lies with evolution.
Humans evolved on land, and our ears are adapted to collect and interpret sound travelling through the air. Unfortunately, this makes our ears pretty much useless underwater.
Most mammals can either hear well only in air (dogs, humans) or water (whales). But there is one group of mammals who can do both – seals. This includes true seals, eared seals, and walruses.
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