The absence of sound production in the animal kingdom is a relative measure, as complete silence is rare. Different species possess varying capacities for vocalization and generate sounds within specific frequency ranges, some inaudible to the human ear. An example would be certain deep-sea organisms that communicate via bioluminescence rather than acoustic signals, effectively minimizing sound output in their environment.
Minimizing auditory signature provides advantages for survival. Reduced sound production can aid in predator avoidance, allowing a creature to remain undetected. For predators, quiet movement and a lack of vocalization can enhance hunting success by preventing prey from being alerted. Historically, observation of animal communication has focused primarily on auditory and visual signals; however, advancements in technology now permit the study of subtle forms of communication that minimize sound.
