The influence of underwater data transmission sounds on the displacement behaviour of captive harbour seals (Phoca vitulina)

摘要: To prevent grounding of ships and collisions between in shallow coastal waters, an underwater data collection communication network (ACME) using sounds to encode transmit is currently under development. Marine mammals might be affected by ACME since they may use sound a similar frequency (around 12 kHz) for communication, orientation, prey location. If marine tend avoid the vicinity acoustic transmitters, kept away from ecologically important areas sounds. One mammal species that North Sea harbour seal (Phoca vitulina). No information available on effects ACME-like seals, so this study was carried out as part environmental impact assessment program. Nine captive seals were subjected four types, three which used network. The effect each judged comparing animals' location pool during test periods baseline periods, no produced. Each could made into deterrent increasing its amplitude. reacted swimming source. pressure level (SPL) at discomfort threshold established defined boundary animals generally occupied transmission did not enter transmission. SPLs thresholds (107 dB re 1 μPa). Based SPL, zones sea several source levels (130-180 μPa) calculated, guideline propagation model water. zone area around are expected avoid. definition based behavioural discomfort, does necessarily coincide with physical zone. these results, can selected have acceptable particular areas. depends sound, level, characteristics system operational. should adapted (taking account width arm, local propagation, importance species). (for instance resting, breeding, suckling, feeding areas), or routes © 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.