Scientists believe that the Cornish Cod attracts their mates by making sounds using their swim bladders. The recent change in climate is forcing the species to migrate up North, and scientists are trying to discover if their Scouse counterparts can understand their accent. Otherwise, their breeding could be compromised.
The lead researcher, Professor Steve Simpson from the University of Exeter, explained that cods had the ability to vocalize. They can change the patterns of their sounds, producing snarls and thumps at different frequencies. Scientists associate the sound made by Cornish Cods to a regional accent. Male cods produce sounds to stimulate the female cods to release eggs.
But with the drastic changes happening to the world's climate, Cornish Cods being are forced to migrate up north due to the rising water temperature. Professor Simpson told the Independent that "Recordings of American cod are very different to those from their European cousins, so there is a precedent."
Simpson further suggests that if the female cod's fail to understand the male cod's dialect, then their ability to breed might be at risk. He added that regional Cod populations coming together for the first time will not share similar vocal repertoires, so Cornish Cods may struggle sharing territories with Scouse Cods.
Meanwhile, environmental experts are also concerned that the noise pollution coming from the boats, and other marine activities could drown the voice volume of the Cornish Cod, doubling their struggles to communicate. While noise pollution can be easily addressed, Simpson said that other environmental damages could be more problematic.