Phylum search mode
Phylum search mode was a mode of the 's computer database that allowed it to search through various lifeforms by their respective phyla. It also had a voice profile feature that enabled it to match a sound to those already in the database. 

In 2286, Spock searched the database using this mode to confirm that a probe of unknown origin was seeking humpback whales on Earth. ()

Animals in the search
The following animals' calls were analyzed as possible matches for the sounds coming from the Whale probe. They are listed in the same order in which they appeared.

Computer technology

Background information 
Numerous scientific names in the Phylum search mode dont' connect to the images of the animals depicted.