What is the term for biological sonar used by animals such as bats?

The term for the biological sonar used by animals such as bats is indeed echolocation. Echolocation is a sophisticated sensory system that allows these animals to navigate and locate prey by emitting sound waves. When these sound waves encounter an object, they bounce back, and the animal interprets the returning echoes to discern the distance, size, shape, and even texture of the objects around them.

This adaptation is particularly vital for animals that thrive in low-light environments, as it enhances their ability to hunt and avoid obstacles in the dark. Echolocation is not only used by bats but also by other creatures, such as dolphins and certain bird species.

While sonar generally refers to similar technology used by humans, echolocation specifically refers to the biological capability of certain animals. Ultrasound pertains to sound waves above the frequency of human hearing and is used in various technologies, such as medical imaging, but it is not the term used for the natural ability of bats. Sonic imaging is a less commonly used term and does not specifically relate to the biological systems of animals.