The marine life could be in danger due to increased ocean noise, stated a Phd student Nathan Merchant from the University of Bath after his recent mission at the west coast of Canada.
The mission included the installation of sound recording equipment 2km down on the sea floor. The equipment was installed around the Juan de Fuca ridge in the northeast Pacific, as reported by The Maritime Executive.
The artificially made noise has been increasing in the previous four decades and the scientists are now worried that this may be affecting the vocal communication between mammals.
Merchant said: “Scientists are concerned that noise from shipping may interfere with whale communication, and may increase physiological stress over long periods, affecting health. Studies like this will help us to better manage our impact on these important ecosystems.”
Studies show that climate change could also impact the noise levels in the oceans.
[mappress]
August 1, 2013