Abstract
Summary Objectives: Underwater anthropogenic noise and the implications of its impact on the marine environment are matters of considerable concern. The relative lack of scientific information on the effects of such underwater noise upon fish, gathered in natural or semi-natural conditions, identifies a real need for FIELD based studies. Specifically the outputs of this project will generate the experimental data necessary to forecast direct effects on a number of important species whose precise sensitivity to anthropogenic noise is the subject of current preliminary investigation. The overarching aim is to provide an evidence-based tool to forecast effects of anthropogenic noise in marine fauna. This will be the first experiment of its type in the field.The outcome of the research will be a set of experiments demonstrating an adverse behavioural reaction (if any) to a variety of sounds, in conjunction with a comprehensive set of measurements of the sounds in both theirs pressure and particle velocity components, and an accurate interpretation in the light of what is known of the hearing abilities of the species concerned. The project will: increase the understanding of sound on fish and shellfish behaviour; identify the threshold of exposure leading to behavioural responses; and define the characteristics, scale and duration of response. Key Customer Purpose: The results will be used primarily by Defra policy to provide evidence for the assessment of Good environmental status (GES) under descriptor 11 (anthropogenic noise) for the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). Very little is known about the affects of noise on marine fauna, (bar some tentative research on cetaceans). This will look at in-situ field affects and try and distinguish what constitutes harm/disturbance, sources and sound levels. what affects noise including particle velocity has on various ecological and commercially important fish and crustacean stocks. As well as being of interest to Defra in setting levels/targets for GES for MSFD, this research will also be of benefit in informing industry and guide regulatory and consenting agencies (MMO & JNCC) to act from a knowledge-based stand point upon consenting applications. The proposal may lead to more precise valuations in cost-benefit exercises when conflicting interests arise from the multiple uses and users of the UK’s coastal areas.
United Kingdom