1
|
Pigeault R, Ruser A, Ramírez-Martínez NC, Geelhoed SCV, Haelters J, Nachtsheim DA, Schaffeld T, Sveegaard S, Siebert U, Gilles A. Maritime traffic alters distribution of the harbour porpoise in the North Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 208:116925. [PMID: 39260144 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
The North Sea is one of the most industrialised marine regions globally. We integrated cetacean-dedicated aerial surveys (2015-2022) with environmental covariates and ship positions from the Automatic Identification System (AIS) to investigate the disturbance radius and duration on harbour porpoise distribution. This study is based on 81,511 km of line-transect survey effort, during which 6511 harbour porpoise groups (8597 individuals) were sighted. Several proxies for ship disturbance were compared, identifying those best explaining the observed distribution. Better model performance was achieved by integrating maritime traffic, with frequent traffic representing the most significant disturbance to harbour porpoise distribution. Porpoises avoided areas frequented by numerous vessels up to distances of 9 km. The number of ships and average approach distance over time improved model performance, while reasons for the lower performance of predicted ship sound levels remain unclear. This study demonstrates the short-term effects of maritime traffic on harbour porpoise distribution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rémi Pigeault
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Andreas Ruser
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Nadya C Ramírez-Martínez
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany; Fundación Macuáticos Colombia, Calle 27 # 79-167, Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia
| | | | | | - Dominik A Nachtsheim
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Tobias Schaffeld
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Signe Sveegaard
- Department of Ecoscience, Marine Mammal Research, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany; Department of Ecoscience, Marine Mammal Research, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Anita Gilles
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Koschinski S, Owen K, Lehnert K, Kamińska K. Current species protection does not serve its porpoise-Knowledge gaps on the impact of pressures on the Critically Endangered Baltic Proper harbour porpoise population, and future recommendations for its protection. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e70156. [PMID: 39267689 PMCID: PMC11392595 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.70156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Successful management requires information on pressures that threaten a species and areas where conservation actions are needed. The Baltic Proper harbour porpoise population was first listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature in 2008. Now, 16 years later, there is no change in conservation status despite ample conservation policy calling for its protection and an urgent need for management action to protect this population. Here, we provide an overview of the current status of the population, highlight knowledge gaps on the impact of pressures, and make recommendations for management of anthropogenic activities. Based on an exceeded limit for anthropogenic mortality, the high concentrations of contaminants in the Baltic Sea, combined with reductions in prey availability and increases in underwater noise, it is inferred that this population is likely still decreasing in size and conservation action becomes more urgent. As bycatch and unprotected underwater explosions result in direct mortality, they must be reduced to zero. Inputs of contaminants, waste, and existing and emerging noise sources should be minimised and regulated. Additionally, ecosystem-based sustainable management of fisheries is paramount in order to ensure prey availability, and maintain a healthy Baltic Sea. Stranding networks to routinely assess individuals for genetic population assignment and health need to be expanded, to identify rare samples from this population. Knowledge is still scarce on the population-level impact of each threat, along with the cumulative impact of multiple pressures on the population. However, the current knowledge and management instruments are sufficient to apply effective protection for the population now. While bycatch is the main pressure impacting this population, urgent conservation action is needed across all anthropogenic activities. Extinction of the Baltic Proper harbour porpoise population is a choice: decision-makers have the fate of this genetically and biologically distinct marine mammal population in their hands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kylie Owen
- Department of Population Analysis and Monitoring Swedish Museum of Natural History Stockholm Sweden
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Hannover Germany
| | - Katarzyna Kamińska
- Department of Fisheries Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development Warsaw Poland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Frie AK, Lindström U. Exploring the effects of methodological choices on the estimation and biological interpretation of life history parameters for harbour porpoises in Norway and beyond. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301427. [PMID: 38968179 PMCID: PMC11226007 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates effects of subtle methodological choices on the estimation and biological interpretation of age, growth and reproductive parameters for harbour porpoises. The core analyses are based on a focal Norwegian data set built on samples from 134 harbour porpoises caught incidentally in gillnet fisheries along the Norwegian coast during autumn 2016 and spring 2017. Two contrasting practices for interpretation of seasonal and ontogenetic characteristics of tooth growth layer formation resulted in significant age differences among spring samples of young porpoises and for older animals across seasons. In turn, these differences affected estimates of age at maturity and asymptotic lengths, respectively. We also found significant differences in male age at maturity between two well-documented maturity criteria and between mathematical estimators of age at maturity for both sexes. Two different criteria for corpus albicans classification furthermore resulted in different patterns of ovarian corpora accumulation, which may affect some estimates of fecundity rates and contaminant loads. Both corpora accumulation patterns were also found in reanalysed data from German and Greenlandic porpoises. Based on tabulated overviews of methodological choices made in previous harbour porpoise studies, we argue that several of the issues mentioned above have wider relevance and may affect the validity of meta-analyses as a tool for estimating harbour porpoise sensitivity to extrinsic pressures. Differences in cause of death (COD) composition between data sets can have a similar effect. We demonstrate this in a meta-analysis of published harbour porpoise pregnancy rates, showing significantly higher values for trauma-killed samples compared to samples comprising mixed COD categories. COD also affected the estimated impacts of three previously analysed extrinsic predictors as well as an added predictor for vessel noise levels. We discuss the potential contributions of methodological, biological and anthropogenic factors in shaping observed regional differences in estimates of harbour porpoise life history parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ulf Lindström
- Institute of Marine Research, Tromsø, Norway
- UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hao X, Hamel H, Grandjean CH, Fedutin I, Wahlberg M, Frankish CK, Nabe‐Nielsen J. Harbour porpoises respond to recreational boats by speeding up and moving away from the boat path. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11433. [PMID: 38756690 PMCID: PMC11096697 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Recreational boats are common in many coastal waters, yet their effects on cetaceans and other sensitive marine species remain poorly understood. To address this knowledge gap, we used drone video footage recorded from a recreational boat to quantify how harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) responded to the boat approaching at different speeds (10 or 20 knots). Furthermore, we used a hydrophone to record boat noise levels at full bandwidth (0.1-150 kHz) and at the 1/3 octave 16 kHz frequency band for both experimental speeds. The experiments were carried out in shallow waters near Funen, Denmark (55.51° N, 10.79° E) between July and September 2022. Porpoises were more likely to move further away from the path of the boat when approached at 10 knots, but not when approached at 20 knots. In contrast, they swam faster when approached at 20 knots, but not when approached at 10 knots. The recorded received sound level did not depend on how fast the boat approached, suggesting that differences in porpoise responses were related to the speed of the approaching boat rather than to sound intensity. In addition, porpoises generally reacted within close proximity (<200 m) to the approaching boat and quickly (<50 s) resumed their natural behaviour once the boat had passed, indicating that the direct impact of small vessels on porpoise behaviour was most likely small. Nevertheless, repeated exposure to noise from small vessels may influence porpoises' activity or energy budget, and cause them to relocate from disturbed areas. The approach used in this study increases our understanding of recreational boats' impact on harbour porpoises and can be used to inform efficient mitigation measures to help focus conservation efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiuqing Hao
- Department of EcoscienceAarhus UniversityRoskildeDenmark
| | - Héloïse Hamel
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
| | | | | | - Magnus Wahlberg
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Owen K, Carlström J, Eriksson P, Andersson M, Nordström R, Lalander E, Sveegaard S, Kyhn LA, Griffiths ET, Cosentino M, Tougaard J. Rerouting of a major shipping lane through important harbour porpoise habitat caused no detectable change in annual occurrence or foraging patterns. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 202:116294. [PMID: 38537499 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Shipping is one of the largest industries globally, with well-known negative impacts on the marine environment. Despite the known negative short-term (minutes to hours) impact of shipping on individual animal behavioural responses, very little is understood about the long-term (months to years) impact on marine species presence and area use. This study took advantage of a planned rerouting of a major shipping lane leading into the Baltic Sea, to investigate the impact on the presence and foraging behaviour of a marine species known to be sensitive to underwater noise, the harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). Passive acoustic monitoring data were collected from 15 stations over two years. Against predictions, no clear change occurred in monthly presence or foraging behaviour of the porpoises, despite the observed changes in noise and vessel traffic. However, long-term heightened noise levels may still impact communication, echolocation, or stress levels of individuals, and needs further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kylie Owen
- Department of Population Analysis and Monitoring, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Frescativägen 40, Stockholm 104 05, Sweden.
| | - Julia Carlström
- Department of Population Analysis and Monitoring, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Frescativägen 40, Stockholm 104 05, Sweden
| | - Pia Eriksson
- Department of Population Analysis and Monitoring, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Frescativägen 40, Stockholm 104 05, Sweden
| | - Mathias Andersson
- Department of Defence Technology, FOI-Swedish Defence Research Agency, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Robin Nordström
- Department of Defence Technology, FOI-Swedish Defence Research Agency, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emilia Lalander
- Department of Defence Technology, FOI-Swedish Defence Research Agency, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Signe Sveegaard
- Section for Marine Mammal Research, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Line A Kyhn
- Section for Marine Mammal Research, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Emily T Griffiths
- Section for Marine Mammal Research, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Mel Cosentino
- Section for Marine Mammal Research, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jakob Tougaard
- Section for Marine Mammal Research, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Frankish CK, von Benda-Beckmann AM, Teilmann J, Tougaard J, Dietz R, Sveegaard S, Binnerts B, de Jong CAF, Nabe-Nielsen J. Ship noise causes tagged harbour porpoises to change direction or dive deeper. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 197:115755. [PMID: 37976591 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Shipping is the most pervasive source of marine noise pollution globally, yet its impact on sensitive fauna remains unclear. We tracked 10 harbour porpoises for 5-10 days to determine exposure and behavioural reactions to modelled broadband noise (10 Hz-20 kHz, VHF-weighted) from individual ships monitored by AIS. Porpoises spent a third of their time experiencing ship noise above ambient, to which they regularly reacted by moving away during daytime and diving deeper during night. However, even ships >2 km away (noise levels of 93 ± 14 dB re 1 μPa2) caused animals to react 5-9 % of the time (∼18.6 ships/day). Ships can thus influence the behaviour and habitat use of cetaceans over long distances, with worrying implications for fitness in coastal areas where anthropogenic noise from dense ship traffic repeatedly disrupt their natural behaviour.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin K Frankish
- Marine Mammal Research Section, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Alexander M von Benda-Beckmann
- Acoustics and Sonar Research Group, Netherlands Organization for Applied and Scientific Research (TNO), The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Jonas Teilmann
- Marine Mammal Research Section, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jakob Tougaard
- Marine Mammal Research Section, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Rune Dietz
- Marine Mammal Research Section, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Signe Sveegaard
- Marine Mammal Research Section, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Bas Binnerts
- Acoustics and Sonar Research Group, Netherlands Organization for Applied and Scientific Research (TNO), The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Christ A F de Jong
- Acoustics and Sonar Research Group, Netherlands Organization for Applied and Scientific Research (TNO), The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Jacob Nabe-Nielsen
- Marine Mammal Research Section, Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
S N X E, Nair NR, Raju RP, Sajeev R. Statistical study on shallow water soundscape variability of Eastern Arabian Sea using noise level metrics. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1314. [PMID: 37831220 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11912-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Underwater soundscape that spans a broad frequency band shows variability consistent with contributing noise sources and ocean environment. However, increased anthropogenic activities result in noise proliferation which can harm natural marine habitat. Continuous monitoring of background sound is useful to assess such spatio-temporal variability of soundscape. Standard noise level metrics, for instance, mean (μ), 90th percentiles (90P), standard deviation (σ), and kurtosis (β), are constructed from noise field measured from three coastal stations in Eastern Arabian Sea. These metrics are found to be suitable to describe the soundscape variability with respect to season, frequency, and depth. Mean and 90P are used to compare the seasonal variations while kurtosis metrics are exercised to check the impulsive nature of composite signal. Histogram representation and probability density function (PDF) were utilized to analyze the spectral variation in soundscape with respect to season. Analysis was carried out at 500-ms temporal window in two spectral bands corresponding to traffic and wind noise fields. Seasonal analysis shows that in summer, mean noise level decreases as hydrophone depth increases, while in winter, deeper depths have higher mean value with the presence of seasonal surface duct. This implication of sound speed profile on noise field has also been confirmed using appropriate noise model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S N X
- Department of Physical Oceanography, School of Marine Science, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, 682016, India.
| | - Nimmi R Nair
- Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory, Ministry of Defense, Thrikkakara, Kochi, Kerala, 682021, India
| | - R P Raju
- Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory, Ministry of Defense, Thrikkakara, Kochi, Kerala, 682021, India
| | - R Sajeev
- Department of Physical Oceanography, School of Marine Science, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, 682016, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Elmegaard SL, Teilmann J, Rojano-Doñate L, Brennecke D, Mikkelsen L, Balle JD, Gosewinkel U, Kyhn LA, Tønnesen P, Wahlberg M, Ruser A, Siebert U, Madsen PT. Wild harbour porpoises startle and flee at low received levels from acoustic harassment device. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16691. [PMID: 37794093 PMCID: PMC10550999 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43453-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acoustic Harassment Devices (AHD) are widely used to deter marine mammals from aquaculture depredation, and from pile driving operations that may otherwise cause hearing damage. However, little is known about the behavioural and physiological effects of these devices. Here, we investigate the physiological and behavioural responses of harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) to a commercial AHD in Danish waters. Six porpoises were tagged with suction-cup-attached DTAGs recording sound, 3D-movement, and GPS (n = 3) or electrocardiogram (n = 2). They were then exposed to AHDs for 15 min, with initial received levels (RL) ranging from 98 to 132 dB re 1 µPa (rms-fast, 125 ms) and initial exposure ranges of 0.9-7 km. All animals reacted by displaying a mixture of acoustic startle responses, fleeing, altered echolocation behaviour, and by demonstrating unusual tachycardia while diving. Moreover, during the 15-min exposures, half of the animals received cumulative sound doses close to published thresholds for temporary auditory threshold shifts. We conclude that AHD exposure at many km can evoke both startle, flight and cardiac responses which may impact blood-gas management, breath-hold capability, energy balance, stress level and risk of by-catch. We posit that current AHDs are too powerful for mitigation use to prevent hearing damage of porpoises from offshore construction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siri L Elmegaard
- Zoophysiology, Dept. of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Jonas Teilmann
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Laia Rojano-Doñate
- Zoophysiology, Dept. of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Dennis Brennecke
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Lonnie Mikkelsen
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
- Norwegian Polar Institute, 9296, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jeppe D Balle
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ulrich Gosewinkel
- Environmental Microbiology, Dept. of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Line A Kyhn
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Pernille Tønnesen
- Zoophysiology, Dept. of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Magnus Wahlberg
- Marine Biological Research Centre, Dept. of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, 5300, Kerteminde, Denmark
| | - Andreas Ruser
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ogawa M, Kimura SS. Variations in echolocation click characteristics of finless porpoise in response to day/night and absence/presence of vessel noise. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288513. [PMID: 37540693 PMCID: PMC10403093 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Small odontocetes produce echolocation clicks to feed and navigate, making it an essential function for their survival. Recently, the effect of vessel noise on small odontocetes behavior has attracted attention owing to increase in vessel activities; however, the effects of the surrounding environmental factor, vessel noise, and day/night on echolocation click characteristics have not been well studied. Here, we examined the effects of vessel noise and day/night on variations in echolocation clicks and click trains parameters. Passive acoustic monitoring of on-axis echolocation clicks produced by free-ranging finless porpoises (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis sunameri) was performed at two sites in Japan, Seto Inland Sea and Mikawa Bay, in June-September 2021 and March-August 2022, using A-tag and SoundTrap 300HF. Generalized Linear Model was used to elucidate the effect of vessel noise, day/night, and surrounding environmental factors (water temperature, synthetic flow velocity, and noise level) on echolocation click and click train parameters. Echolocation click and click train parameters were strongly affected by day/night, whereas the absence/presence vessel noise did not exhibit statistically significant influence. Particularly, -3 dB bandwidth was wider, click duration was shorter, and inter-click intervals in a train were shorter at night, which may facilitate information processing at night, thereby compensating for the lack of visual information. The interaction between day/night and the absence/presence of vessel noise affected the source level of finless porpoises, with higher levels observed in the absence of vessel noise during the daytime compared to other conditions at the site with low vessel traffic. Overall, these results suggest that echolocation clicks by finless porpoise were likely to fluctuate to adapt with surrounding complex environmental conditions, especially day/night.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayu Ogawa
- Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Distinguished Doctoral Program of Platforms (WISE), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satoko S Kimura
- Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Distinguished Doctoral Program of Platforms (WISE), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Center for Southeast Asian Studies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
van Geel NCF, Risch D, Wittich A. A brief overview of current approaches for underwater sound analysis and reporting. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 178:113610. [PMID: 35468578 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Soundscapes have substantially changed since the industrial revolution and in response to biodiversity loss and climate change. Human activities such as shipping, resource exploration and offshore construction alter natural ecosystems through sound, which can impact marine species in complex ways. The study of underwater sound is multi-disciplinary, spanning the fields of acoustics, physics, animal physiology and behaviour to marine ecology and conservation. These different backgrounds have led to the use of various disparate terms, metrics, and summary statistics, which can hamper comparisons between studies. Different types of equipment, analytical pathways, and reporting can lead to different results for the same sound source, with implications for impact assessments. For meaningful comparisons and derivation of appropriate thresholds, mitigation, and management approaches, it is necessary to develop common standards. This paper presents a brief overview of acoustic metrics, analysis approaches and reporting standards used in the context of long-term monitoring of soundscapes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nienke C F van Geel
- Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), Oban, Argyll, PA37 1QA, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Denise Risch
- Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), Oban, Argyll, PA37 1QA, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Anja Wittich
- Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), Oban, Argyll, PA37 1QA, Scotland, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Marotte E, Wright AJ, Breeze H, Wingfield J, Matthews LP, Risch D, Merchant ND, Barclay D, Evers C, Lawson J, Lesage V, Moors-Murphy H, Nolet V, Theriault JA. Recommended metrics for quantifying underwater noise impacts on North Atlantic right whales. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 175:113361. [PMID: 35077924 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic underwater noise has been identified as a potentially serious stressor for the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale (NARW). The Government of Canada is undertaking steps to better characterize the noise sources of most concern and their associated impacts, but there is currently an insufficient understanding of which noise sources are most impacting NARW in their Canadian habitat. This knowledge gap together with the myriad possible methods and metrics for quantifying underwater noise presents a confounding and challenging problem that risks delaying timely mitigation. This study presents the results from a 2020 workshop aimed at developing a series of metrics recommended specifically for better characterizing the types of noise deemed of greatest concern for NARW in Canadian waters. The recommendations provide a basis for more targeted research on noise impacts and set the stage for more effective management and protection of NARW, with potential conservation applications to similar species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmaline Marotte
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, 1 Challenger Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4A2, Canada
| | - Andrew J Wright
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, 1 Challenger Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4A2, Canada.
| | - Heather Breeze
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, 1 Challenger Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4A2, Canada
| | - Jessica Wingfield
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, 1 Challenger Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4A2, Canada
| | - Leanna P Matthews
- Sound Science Research Collective, 5305 N. Douglas Highway, Juneau, AK 99801, USA
| | - Denise Risch
- Scottish Association for Marine Science, Oban PA37 1QA, Scotland, UK
| | - Nathan D Merchant
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, Suffolk, UK
| | - David Barclay
- Department of Oceanography, Dalhousie University, 1355 Oxford Street, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Clair Evers
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, 1 Challenger Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4A2, Canada
| | - Jack Lawson
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre, 80 East White Hills Road, St. John's, NL A1C 5X1, Canada
| | - Veronique Lesage
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Maurice Lamontagne Institute, P.O. Box 1000, 850 route de la Mer, Mont-Joli, QC G5H 3Z4, Canada
| | - Hilary Moors-Murphy
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, 1 Challenger Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4A2, Canada
| | - Veronique Nolet
- Transport Canada, Innovation Centre, 330 Sparks Street, Ottawa, ON K1A 0N5, Canada
| | - James A Theriault
- Ocean Environmental Consulting, 9 Ravine Park Crescent, Halifax, NS B3M 4S6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Virto LR, Dumez H, Romero C, Bailly D. How can ports act to reduce underwater noise from shipping? Identifying effective management frameworks. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 174:113136. [PMID: 34952408 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This paper aims to find mechanisms to align commercial interests with underwater noise reductions from commercial shipping. Through a survey and a series of interviews with representative stakeholders, we find that while acknowledging the wide variations in ports' specificities, port actions could support the reduction in underwater noise emissions from commercial shipping through changes in hull, propeller and engine design, and through operational measures associated with reduced speed, change of route and travel in convoy. Though the impact of underwater noise emissions on marine fauna is increasingly shown to be serious and wide-spread, there is uncertainty in the mechanisms, the contexts, and the levels which should lead to action, requiring precautionary management. Vessels owners are already dealing with significant investment and operating costs to comply with fuel, ballast water, NOx and CO2 requirements. To be successful, underwater noise programs should align with these factors. Based on a multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) approach, we find a set of compromise solutions for a wide range of stakeholders. Ports could propose actions such as discounted port fees and reduced ship waiting times at ports, both depending on underwater noise performance. Cooperation between ports to scale up actions through environmental indexes and classification societies' notations, and integration with other ports' actions could help support this. However, few vessels know their underwater noise baseline as there are very few hydrophone stations, and measurement methodologies are not standardized. Costs increase and availability decreases dramatically if the vessel buyer wants to improve the noise profile. Local demands regarding airborne noise close to airports boosted global pressure on the aviation industry to adopt existing quieting technology. This experience of the aviation noise control could inform the underwater noise process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Recuero Virto
- Centre for the Law and Economics of the Sea (UMR M101 AMURE), European Institute for Marine Studies, Rue Dumont d'Urville, 29280 Plouzané, France; Interdisciplinary Institute for Innovation (UMR 9217 i3), École Polytechnique, Bâtiment Ensta, 828, Boulevard des Maréchaux, 91762 Palaiseau Cedex, France.
| | - Hervé Dumez
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Innovation (UMR 9217 i3), École Polytechnique, Bâtiment Ensta, 828, Boulevard des Maréchaux, 91762 Palaiseau Cedex, France.
| | - Carlos Romero
- ETS Ingenieros de Montes, Forestales y del Medio Natural, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Denis Bailly
- Centre for the Law and Economics of the Sea (UMR M101 AMURE), European Institute for Marine Studies, Rue Dumont d'Urville, 29280 Plouzané, France.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Brennecke D, Wahlberg M, Gilles A, Siebert U. Age and lunar cycle predict harbor porpoise bycatch in the south-western Baltic Sea. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12284. [PMID: 34760359 PMCID: PMC8556710 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The harbor porpoise, Phocoena phocoena, is the only cetacean regularly occurring in the Baltic Sea. During the last decades, several anthropogenic activities have affected porpoises in the Baltic region. Most notably is bycatch in static fishing gear, such as gill nets, which is the main human-induced cause of death in odontocetes. There is still considerable uncertainty about which factors influence the amount of bycatch. In the present study, we reviewed bycatch data collected from 1987 to 2016 from the south-western Baltic Sea. There was a significant difference in bycatch due to seasonality and region, and there was a higher bycatch rate in juveniles than in adults. The only abiotic factor associated with bycatch was the lunar cycle, with more animals bycaught during a full moon. These results improve our understanding of which biotic and abiotic factors are associated with bycatch of Baltic harbor porpoises, which can be used to strengthen conservation endeavors such as managing fishing efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Brennecke
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.,University of Southern Denmark, Department of Biology, Marine Biological Research Centre, Kerteminde, Denmark.,Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education, Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
| | - Magnus Wahlberg
- University of Southern Denmark, Department of Biology, Marine Biological Research Centre, Kerteminde, Denmark
| | - Anita Gilles
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kastelein RA, Helder-Hoek L, Covi J, Terhune JM, Klump G. Masking release at 4 kHz in harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) associated with sinusoidal amplitude-modulated masking noise. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2021; 150:1721. [PMID: 34598600 DOI: 10.1121/10.0006103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Acoustic masking reduces the efficiency of communication, prey detection, and predator avoidance in marine mammals. Most underwater sounds fluctuate in amplitude. The ability of harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) to detect sounds in amplitude-varying masking noise was examined. A psychophysical technique evaluated hearing thresholds of three harbor porpoises for 500-2000 ms tonal sweeps (3.9-4.1 kHz), presented concurrently with sinusoidal amplitude-modulated (SAM) or unmodulated Gaussian noise bands centered at 4 kHz. Masking was assessed in relation to signal duration and masker level, amplitude modulation rate (1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, and 90 Hz), modulation depth (50%, 75%, and 100%) and bandwidth (1/3 or 1 octave). Masking release (MR) due to SAM was assessed by comparing thresholds in modulated and unmodulated maskers. Masked thresholds were affected by SAM rate with the lowest thresholds (i.e., largest MR was 14.5 dB) being observed for SAM rates between 1 and 5 Hz at higher masker levels. Increasing the signal duration from 500-2000 ms increased MR by 3.3 dB. Masker bandwidth and depth of modulation had no substantial effect on MR. The results are discussed with respect to MR resulting from envelope variation and the impact of noise in the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronald A Kastelein
- Sea Mammal Research Company (SEAMARCO), Julianalaan 46, 3843 CC Harderwijk, The Netherlands
| | - Lean Helder-Hoek
- Sea Mammal Research Company (SEAMARCO), Julianalaan 46, 3843 CC Harderwijk, The Netherlands
| | - Jennifer Covi
- Sea Mammal Research Company (SEAMARCO), Julianalaan 46, 3843 CC Harderwijk, The Netherlands
| | - John M Terhune
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Brunswick, P.O. Box 5050, Saint John, New Brunswick, E2L 4L5, Canada
| | - Georg Klump
- Cluster of Excellence "Hearing4all" and Research Centre Neurosensory Science, Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Science, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Burnham RE, Vagle S, O'Neill C. Spatiotemporal patterns in the natural and anthropogenic additions to the soundscape in parts of the Salish Sea, British Columbia, 2018-2020. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 170:112647. [PMID: 34175695 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Passive acoustic recorders were deployed over two years (February 2018-March 2020) in the Salish Sea to monitor the underwater soundscape. Seasonal cycles and differences between the open Strait of Juan de Fuca and protected inner waterways were pervasive during this period. A comparison between natural and human-derived noise demonstrated the impact of anthropogenic activities on the sound field. Elevated ambient noise levels during winter resulted predominantly from greater sea states and storm events. Abiotic additions were defined through correlations to wind speed, wave and precipitation measures. Vessel noise was a pervasive anthropogenic addition; commercial vessel noise was consistently present, whereas smaller vessels showed weekly and diurnal patterns, especially during the summer when their presence increased. A better understanding of the different soundscape constituents, and when each dominates, is crucial to understanding the human impact on underwater ecosystems and the organisms within them, leading to more effective mitigation measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R E Burnham
- Institute of Ocean Sciences, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Sidney, British Columbia, V8L 4B2, Canada.
| | - S Vagle
- Institute of Ocean Sciences, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Sidney, British Columbia, V8L 4B2, Canada
| | - C O'Neill
- Institute of Ocean Sciences, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Sidney, British Columbia, V8L 4B2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Gallagher CA, Grimm V, Kyhn LA, Kinze CC, Nabe-Nielsen J. Movement and Seasonal Energetics Mediate Vulnerability to Disturbance in Marine Mammal Populations. Am Nat 2021; 197:296-311. [PMID: 33625969 DOI: 10.1086/712798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIn marine environments, noise from human activities is increasing dramatically, causing animals to alter their behavior and forage less efficiently. These alterations incur energetic costs that can result in reproductive failure and death and may ultimately influence population viability, yet the link between population dynamics and individual energetics is poorly understood. We present an energy budget model for simulating effects of acoustic disturbance on populations. It accounts for environmental variability and individual state, while incorporating realistic animal movements. Using harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) as a case study, we evaluated population consequences of disturbance from seismic surveys and investigated underlying drivers of vulnerability. The framework reproduced empirical estimates of population structure and seasonal variations in energetics. The largest effects predicted for seismic surveys were in late summer and fall and were unrelated to local abundance, but instead were related to lactation costs, water temperature, and body fat. Our results demonstrate that consideration of temporal variation in individual energetics and their link to costs associated with disturbances is imperative when predicting disturbance impacts. These mechanisms are general to animal species, and the framework presented here can be used for gaining new insights into the spatiotemporal variability of animal movements and energetics that control population dynamics.
Collapse
|
17
|
Cervin L, Harkonen T, Harding KC. Multiple stressors and data deficient populations; a comparative life-history approach sheds new light on the extinction risk of the highly vulnerable Baltic harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena). ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 144:106076. [PMID: 32891921 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Many endangered marine mammal populations are difficult to study, spread out over large areas, and capturing them for branding and research purposes would be unethical. Yet, they are in urgent need for assessment and conservation actions. We suggest collecting data from other more abundant populations of the same species, with careful consideration of body size, age at sexual maturity, and ecological conditions to produce scientifically sound best approximations of vital rates of data deficient endangered populations. The genetically distinct Baltic Sea harbour porpoise population amounts to about 500 animals and is classified as 'Critically Endangered' according to the IUCN red list. Data deficiency on nearly all demographic parameters have precluded systematic investigations of the relative importance of stressors affecting population viability. We took a comparative life history approach and investigated the phenotypic plasticity in somatic and demographic vital rates of seven larger, well studied North Atlantic harbour porpoise populations, enabling us to approximate the missing pieces of the life history of the Baltic population. We parameterized a stochastic, individual-based population model, and performed a population viability analysis for a range of biologically realistic parameter values and scenarios of environmental stressors. The baseline scenario was based on the most representative samples of healthy harbour porpoise populations and challenged with three different levels of bycatches. Due to high levels of endocrine disruptive contaminants observed in Baltic harbour porpoises, we also investigated the effect of a possible reduction in fecundity. Subsequently, the combined effects of bycatches and reduced fecundity were investigated in terms of population growth rate and quasi-extinction risk. The Baltic harbour porpoise population is viable in the baseline scenario without anthropogenic stressors. However, even the lowest estimated bycatch level of 7 individuals per year will lead to a population collapse to ≤50 animals with high probability (0.4-1.0) over the next century, assuming an intermediate or low (<73%) fecundity. Adult survival is of critical importance and mitigation of fishery impacts and reduction of anthropogenic disturbances in the identified main breeding areas are recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linnea Cervin
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Gothenburg University, Box 461, S-40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Karin C Harding
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Gothenburg University, Box 461, S-40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Trigg LE, Chen F, Shapiro GI, Ingram SN, Vincent C, Thompson D, Russell DJF, Carter MID, Embling CB. Predicting the exposure of diving grey seals to shipping noise. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2020; 148:1014. [PMID: 32873039 DOI: 10.1121/10.0001727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
There is high spatial overlap between grey seals and shipping traffic, and the functional hearing range of grey seals indicates sensitivity to underwater noise emitted by ships. However, there is still very little data regarding the exposure of grey seals to shipping noise, constraining effective policy decisions. Particularly, there are few predictions that consider the at-sea movement of seals. Consequently, this study aimed to predict the exposure of adult grey seals and pups to shipping noise along a three-dimensional movement track, and assess the influence of shipping characteristics on sound exposure levels. Using ship location data, a ship source model, and the acoustic propagation model, RAMSurf, this study estimated weighted 24-h sound exposure levels (10-1000 Hz) (SELw). Median predicted 24-h SELw was 128 and 142 dB re 1 μPa2s for the pups and adults, respectively. The predicted exposure of seals to shipping noise did not exceed best evidence thresholds for temporary threshold shift. Exposure was mediated by the number of ships, ship source level, the distance between seals and ships, and the at-sea behaviour of the seals. The results can inform regulatory planning related to anthropogenic pressures on seal populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leah E Trigg
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| | - Feng Chen
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| | - Georgy I Shapiro
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| | - Simon N Ingram
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| | - Cécile Vincent
- Centre d'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, CNRS/University of La Rochelle, La Rochelle, France
| | - David Thompson
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 8LB, United Kingdom
| | - Debbie J F Russell
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 8LB, United Kingdom
| | - Matt I D Carter
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 8LB, United Kingdom
| | - Clare B Embling
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Schaffeld T, Schnitzler JG, Ruser A, Woelfing B, Baltzer J, Siebert U. Effects of multiple exposures to pile driving noise on harbor porpoise hearing during simulated flights-An evaluation tool. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2020; 147:685. [PMID: 32113263 DOI: 10.1121/10.0000595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Exploitation of renewable energy from offshore wind farms is substantially increasing worldwide. The majority of wind turbines are bottom mounted, causing high levels of impulsive noise during construction. To prevent temporary threshold shifts (TTS) in harbor porpoise hearing, single strike sound exposure levels (SELSS) are restricted in Germany by law to a maximum of 160 dB re 1 μPa2s at a distance of 750 m from the sound source. Underwater recordings of pile driving strikes, recorded during the construction of an offshore wind farm in the German North Sea, were analyzed. Using a simulation approach, it was tested whether a TTS can still be induced under current protective regulations by multiple exposures. The evaluation tool presented here can be easily adjusted for different sound propagation, acoustic signals, or species and enables one to calculate a minimum deterrence distance. Based on this simulation approach, only the combination of SELSS regulation, previous deterrence, and soft start allow harbor porpoises to avoid a TTS from multiple exposures. However, deterrence efficiency has to be monitored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Schaffeld
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, D-25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Joseph G Schnitzler
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, D-25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Andreas Ruser
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, D-25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Benno Woelfing
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, D-25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Johannes Baltzer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, D-25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, D-25761 Buesum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Schaffeld T, Ruser A, Woelfing B, Baltzer J, Kristensen JH, Larsson J, Schnitzler JG, Siebert U. The use of seal scarers as a protective mitigation measure can induce hearing impairment in harbour porpoises. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2019; 146:4288. [PMID: 31893707 DOI: 10.1121/1.5135303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Acoustic deterrent devices (ADDs) are used to deter seals from aquacultures but exposure of harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) occurs as a side-effect. At construction sites, by contrast, ADDs are used to deter harbour porpoises from the zone in which pile driving noise can induce temporary threshold shifts (TTSs). ADDs emit such high pressure levels that there is concern that ADDs themselves may induce a TTS. A harbour porpoise in human care was exposed to an artificial ADD signal with a peak frequency of 14 kHz. A significant TTS was found, measured by auditory evoked potentials, with an onset of 142 dB re 1 μPa2s at 20 kHz and 147 dB re 1 μPa2s at 28 kHz. The authors therefore strongly recommend to gradually increase and down regulate source levels of ADDs to the desired deterrence range. However, further research is needed to develop a reliable relationship between received levels and deterrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Schaffeld
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Andreas Ruser
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Benno Woelfing
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Johannes Baltzer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany
| | | | | | - Joseph G Schnitzler
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hermannsen L, Mikkelsen L, Tougaard J, Beedholm K, Johnson M, Madsen PT. Recreational vessels without Automatic Identification System (AIS) dominate anthropogenic noise contributions to a shallow water soundscape. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15477. [PMID: 31664060 PMCID: PMC6820791 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51222-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Recreational boating is an increasing activity in coastal areas and its spatiotemporal overlap with key habitats of marine species pose a risk for negative noise impacts. Yet, recreational vessels are currently unaccounted for in vessel noise models using Automatic Identification System (AIS) data. Here we conduct a case study investigating noise contributions from vessels with and without AIS (non-AIS) in a shallow coastal area within the Inner Danish waters. By tracking vessels with theodolite and AIS, while recording ambient noise levels, we find that non-AIS vessels have a higher occurrence (83%) than AIS vessels, and that motorised recreational vessels can elevate third-octave band noise centred at 0.125, 2 and 16 kHz by 47-51 dB. Accordingly, these vessels dominated the soundscape in the study site due to their high numbers, high speeds and proximity to the coast. Furthermore, recreational vessels caused 49-85% of noise events potentially eliciting behavioural responses in harbour porpoises (AIS vessels caused 5-24%). We therefore conclude that AIS data would poorly predict vessel noise pollution and its impacts in this and other similar marine environments. We suggest to improve vessel noise models and impact assessments by requiring that faster and more powerful recreational vessels carry AIS-transmitters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Line Hermannsen
- Zoophysiology, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark. .,Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Lonnie Mikkelsen
- Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jakob Tougaard
- Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kristian Beedholm
- Zoophysiology, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mark Johnson
- Zoophysiology, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Peter T Madsen
- Zoophysiology, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wisniewska DM, Johnson M, Teilmann J, Siebert U, Galatius A, Dietz R, Madsen PT. High rates of vessel noise disrupt foraging in wild harbour porpoises ( Phocoena phocoena). Proc Biol Sci 2019; 285:rspb.2017.2314. [PMID: 29445018 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2017.2314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Shipping is the dominant marine anthropogenic noise source in the world's oceans, yet we know little about vessel encounter rates, exposure levels and behavioural reactions for cetaceans in the wild, many of which rely on sound for foraging, communication and social interactions. Here, we used animal-borne acoustic tags to measure vessel noise exposure and foraging efforts in seven harbour porpoises in highly trafficked coastal waters. Tagged porpoises encountered vessel noise 17-89% of the time and occasional high-noise levels coincided with vigorous fluking, bottom diving, interrupted foraging and even cessation of echolocation, leading to significantly fewer prey capture attempts at received levels greater than 96 dB re 1 µPa (16 kHz third-octave). If such exposures occur frequently, porpoises, which have high metabolic requirements, may be unable to compensate energetically with negative long-term fitness consequences. That shipping noise disrupts foraging in the high-frequency-hearing porpoise raises concerns that other toothed whale species may also be affected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danuta Maria Wisniewska
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark .,Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, CA, USA
| | - Mark Johnson
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Jonas Teilmann
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buesum, Germany
| | - Anders Galatius
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Teglberg Madsen
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cominelli S, Devillers R, Yurk H, MacGillivray A, McWhinnie L, Canessa R. Noise exposure from commercial shipping for the southern resident killer whale population. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 136:177-200. [PMID: 30509799 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.08.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 06/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study assesses vessel-noise exposure levels for Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKW) in the Salish Sea. Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) was used to delineate SRKW summer core areas. Those areas were combined with the output of a regional cumulative noise model describing sound level variations generated by commercial vessels (1/3-octave-bands from 10 Hz to 63.1 kHz). Cumulative distribution functions were used to evaluate SRKW's noise exposure from 15 vessel categories over three zones located within the KDE. Median cumulative noise values were used to group categories based on the associated exposure levels. Ferries, Tugboats, Vehicle Carriers, Recreational Vessels, Containers, and Bulkers showed high levels of exposure (Leq-50th > 90 dB re 1 μPa) within SRKW core areas. Management actions aiming at reducing SRKW noise exposure during the summer should target the abovementioned categories and take into consideration the spatial distribution of their levels of exposure, their mechanical and their operational characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Cominelli
- Department of Geography, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John's, NL A1B 3X9, Canada.
| | - Rodolphe Devillers
- Department of Geography, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John's, NL A1B 3X9, Canada
| | - Harald Yurk
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Aquatic Ecosystems Marine Mammal Science, 4160 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC V7V 1N6, Canada
| | | | - Lauren McWhinnie
- Department of Geography, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 3R4, Canada
| | - Rosaline Canessa
- Department of Geography, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 3R4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Leunissen EM, Dawson SM. Underwater noise levels of pile-driving in a New Zealand harbour, and the potential impacts on endangered Hector's dolphins. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 135:195-204. [PMID: 30301031 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Impact pile-driving generates loud underwater anthropogenic sounds, and is routinely conducted in harbours around the world. Surprisingly few studies of these sounds and their propagation are published in the primary literature. To partially redress this we studied pile-driving sounds in Lyttelton Harbour, New Zealand, during wharf reconstruction after earthquake damage. That Lyttelton harbour is routinely used by Hector's dolphins (Cephalorhynchus hectori), an endangered species found only in New Zealand, provided further context for this study. Steel piles of 0.61 or 0.71 m diameter were driven using three different pile-drivers. Maximum calculated source SEL was 192 dB re 1 μPa2s @ 1 m (SPL0-p of 213 dB re 1 μPa @ 1 m). Propagation of piling noise was strongly influenced by harbour bathymetry and a rock breakwater near the piling operation. We calculated range estimates at which Hector's dolphins may suffer temporary hearing threshold shift and behavioural change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva M Leunissen
- Marine Science Department, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand.
| | - Stephen M Dawson
- Marine Science Department, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Autenrieth M, Hartmann S, Lah L, Roos A, Dennis AB, Tiedemann R. High-quality whole-genome sequence of an abundant Holarctic odontocete, the harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). Mol Ecol Resour 2018; 18:1469-1481. [PMID: 30035363 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.12932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) is a highly mobile cetacean found across the Northern hemisphere. It occurs in coastal waters and inhabits basins that vary broadly in salinity, temperature and food availability. These diverse habitats could drive subtle differentiation among populations, but examination of this would be best conducted with a robust reference genome. Here, we report the first harbour porpoise genome, assembled de novo from an individual originating in the Kattegat Sea (Sweden). The genome is one of the most complete cetacean genomes currently available, with a total size of 2.39 Gb and 50% of the total length found in just 34 scaffolds. Using 122 of the longest scaffolds, we were able to show high levels of synteny with the genome of the domestic cattle (Bos taurus). Our draft annotation comprises 22,154 predicted genes, which we further annotated through matches to the NCBI nucleotide database, GO categorization and motif prediction. Within the predicted genes, we have confirmed the presence of >20 genes or gene families that have been associated with adaptive evolution in other cetaceans. Overall, this genome assembly and draft annotation represent a crucial addition to the genomic resources currently available for the study of porpoises and Phocoenidae evolution, phylogeny and conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marijke Autenrieth
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, Evolutionary Biology/Systematic Zoology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Stefanie Hartmann
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, Evolutionary Adaptive Genomics, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Ljerka Lah
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, Evolutionary Biology/Systematic Zoology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Anna Roos
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alice B Dennis
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, Evolutionary Biology/Systematic Zoology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Ralph Tiedemann
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, Evolutionary Biology/Systematic Zoology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Norman S, Hanson M, Huggins J, Lambourn D, Calambokidis J, Cottrell P, Greene A, Raverty S, Berta S, Dubpernell S, Klope M, Olson J, Jeffries S, Carrasco M, Souze V, Elsby A, McLean C, Carlson B, Emmons C, Gaydos J. Conception, fetal growth, and calving seasonality of harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) in the Salish Sea waters of Washington, USA, and southern British Columbia, Canada. CAN J ZOOL 2018. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2017-0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We evaluated harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena (Linnaeus, 1758)) strandings in the Salish Sea to determine calving seasonality (1980–2015). A total of 443 strandings were analyzed, of which 134 were calves and 53 were neonates. Stranded calves were reported every month, but peaked in July, August, and September. Based on fetal size and an estimated fetal growth rate of 80 mm/month, mean (±SD) conception date (and range) was back-calculated to 11 October ± 30 days (16 August – 31 December) and was later than in most other studies. Using mean (±SD) length at birth (80 ± 5.8 cm), gestation was estimated to be approximately 10.8 months. Estimated birthing period was 16 July – 27 November, with a mean (±SD) birth date of 10 September (±30.7 days) and a birth length of 80.0 cm. Estimated pregnancy rate (0.28–0.29) is lower than reported in other areas and is likely an underestimate due to missed early embryos, poor postmortem condition of a large proportion of the stranded adult females, and potential biases related to the animals that strand and are available. This study of harbor porpoise reproduction and calving in the Salish Sea is the first assessment of calving seasonality for this species in the northeast Pacific Ocean.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S.A. Norman
- Marine-Med: Marine Research, Epidemiology, and Veterinary Medicine, 24225 15th Place Southeast, Bothell, WA 98021, USA
| | - M.B. Hanson
- NOAA Northwest Fisheries Science Center, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
| | - J. Huggins
- Cascadia Research, 218½ West Fourth Avenue, Olympia, WA 98501, USA
| | - D. Lambourn
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Marine Mammal Investigations, 7801 Phillips Road Southwest, Lakewood, WA 98498, USA
| | - J. Calambokidis
- Cascadia Research, 218½ West Fourth Avenue, Olympia, WA 98501, USA
| | - P. Cottrell
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Fisheries Management Branch, Suite 200-401 Burrard, Vancouver, BC V6C 3S4, Canada
| | - A. Greene
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Fisheries Management Branch, Suite 200-401 Burrard, Vancouver, BC V6C 3S4, Canada
| | - S. Raverty
- Animal Health Centre, BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, 1767 Angus Campbell Road, Abbotsford, BC V3G 2M3, Canada
| | - S. Berta
- Orca Network, Central Puget Sound Marine Mammal Stranding Network, 485 Labella Vista Way, Freeland, WA 98249, USA
| | - S. Dubpernell
- Orca Network, Central Puget Sound Marine Mammal Stranding Network, 485 Labella Vista Way, Freeland, WA 98249, USA
| | - M. Klope
- Orca Network, Central Puget Sound Marine Mammal Stranding Network, 485 Labella Vista Way, Freeland, WA 98249, USA
| | - J.K. Olson
- The Whale Museum, 62 First Street North, Friday Harbor, WA 98250, USA
| | - S.J. Jeffries
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Marine Mammal Investigations, 7801 Phillips Road Southwest, Lakewood, WA 98498, USA
| | - M. Carrasco
- Whatcom County Marine Mammal Stranding Network, 3842 Legoe Bay Road, Lummi Island, WA 98262, USA
| | - V. Souze
- Whatcom County Marine Mammal Stranding Network, 3842 Legoe Bay Road, Lummi Island, WA 98262, USA
| | - A. Elsby
- Whatcom County Marine Mammal Stranding Network, 3842 Legoe Bay Road, Lummi Island, WA 98262, USA
| | - C. McLean
- Port Townsend Marine Science Center, 532 Battery Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA
| | - B. Carlson
- Port Townsend Marine Science Center, 532 Battery Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA
| | - C. Emmons
- NOAA Northwest Fisheries Science Center, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
| | - J.K. Gaydos
- Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center-Orcas Island Office, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, 942 Deer Harbor Road, Eastsound, WA 98245, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
van Beest FM, Teilmann J, Dietz R, Galatius A, Mikkelsen L, Stalder D, Sveegaard S, Nabe-Nielsen J. Environmental drivers of harbour porpoise fine-scale movements. MARINE BIOLOGY 2018; 165:95. [PMID: 29725140 PMCID: PMC5924767 DOI: 10.1007/s00227-018-3346-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Quantifying intraspecific variation in movement behaviour of marine predators and the underlying environmental drivers is important to inform conservation management of protected species. Here, we provide the first empirical data on fine-scale movements of free-ranging harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in their natural habitat. Data were obtained from six individuals, tagged in two areas of the Danish North Sea, that were equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) and dive recorder units (V-tags). We used multi-model inference and model averaging to evaluate the relative importance of various static and dynamic environmental conditions on the movement characteristics: speed, turning angle, dive duration, dive depth, dive wiggliness (a proxy for prey chasing behaviour), and post-dive duration. Despite substantial individual differences in horizontal and vertical movement patterns, we found that all the tracked porpoises responded similar to variation in environmental conditions and displayed movements that indicate a higher likelihood of foraging behaviour in shallower and more saline waters. Our study contributes to the identification of important feeding areas for porpoises and can be used to improve existing movement-based simulation models that aim to assess the impact of anthropogenic disturbance on harbour porpoise populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Floris M. van Beest
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jonas Teilmann
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Anders Galatius
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Lonnie Mikkelsen
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Dominique Stalder
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Signe Sveegaard
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jacob Nabe-Nielsen
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Forney KA, Southall BL, Slooten E, Dawson S, Read AJ, Baird RW, Brownell RL. Nowhere to go: noise impact assessments for marine mammal populations with high site fidelity. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2017. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
|
29
|
Beest FM, Kindt‐Larsen L, Bastardie F, Bartolino V, Nabe‐Nielsen J. Predicting the population‐level impact of mitigating harbor porpoise bycatch with pingers and time‐area fishing closures. Ecosphere 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.1785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Floris M. Beest
- Department of Bioscience Aarhus University Frederiksborgvej 399 4000 Roskilde Denmark
| | - Lotte Kindt‐Larsen
- National Institute for Aquatic Resources Technical University of Denmark Charlottenlund Castle Charlottenlund 2920 Denmark
| | - Francois Bastardie
- National Institute for Aquatic Resources Technical University of Denmark Charlottenlund Castle Charlottenlund 2920 Denmark
| | - Valerio Bartolino
- Department of Aquatic Resources Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Lysekil 45330 Sweden
| | - Jacob Nabe‐Nielsen
- Department of Bioscience Aarhus University Frederiksborgvej 399 4000 Roskilde Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Akkaya Bas A, Christiansen F, Amaha Öztürk A, Öztürk B, McIntosh C. The effects of marine traffic on the behaviour of Black Sea harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena relicta) within the Istanbul Strait, Turkey. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172970. [PMID: 28296899 PMCID: PMC5351841 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine traffic is threatening cetaceans on a local and global scale. The Istanbul Strait is one of the busiest waterways, with up to 2,500 vessels present daily. This is the first study to assess the magnitude of short- and long-term behavioural changes of the endangered Black Sea harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena relicta) in the presence of marine vessels within the Istanbul Strait. Markov chains were used to investigate the effect of vessel presence on the transition probability between behavioural states (diving, surface-feeding and travelling), and to quantify the effect on the behavioural budget and bout length (duration of time spent in a given state) of porpoises. Further, the changes on swimming directions of porpoises in relation to vessel speed and distance was investigated using generalized linear models. In vessel presence, porpoises were less likely to remain in a given behavioural state and instead more likely to switch to another state. Because of this, the bout length of all three behavioural states decreased significantly in the presence of vessels. The vessel effect was sufficiently large to alter the behavioural budget, with surface-feeding decreasing significantly in the presence of vessels. However, when taking into account the proportion of time that porpoises were exposed to vessels (i.e. 50%), the measured effect size was not large enough to significantly alter the animals’ cumulative (diurnal) behavioural budget. Additionally, vessel speed and distance had a significant effect on the probability of porpoises showing a response in their swimming directions. The southern and middle sections of the Istanbul Strait, which have the heaviest marine traffic pressure, had the lowest porpoise sightings throughout the year. Conversely, northern sections that were exposed to a lesser degree of marine traffic hold the highest porpoise sightings. The effect shown in this study in combination with increasing human impacts within the northern sections should be considered carefully and species-specific conservation actions, including establishment of protected areas, should be put in place to prevent the long-term consequences of marine traffic on the Black Sea harbour porpoise population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aylin Akkaya Bas
- Faculty of Fisheries, Istanbul University, Beyazit, Istanbul, Turkey.,Turkish Marine Research Foundation, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey.,Marine Mammals Research Association, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Fredrik Christiansen
- Cetacean Research Unit, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150 Australia
| | - Ayaka Amaha Öztürk
- Faculty of Fisheries, Istanbul University, Beyazit, Istanbul, Turkey.,Turkish Marine Research Foundation, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bayram Öztürk
- Faculty of Fisheries, Istanbul University, Beyazit, Istanbul, Turkey.,Turkish Marine Research Foundation, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Nuuttila HK, Courtene-Jones W, Baulch S, Simon M, Evans PGH. Don't forget the porpoise: acoustic monitoring reveals fine scale temporal variation between bottlenose dolphin and harbour porpoise in Cardigan Bay SAC. MARINE BIOLOGY 2017; 164:50. [PMID: 28275285 PMCID: PMC5320002 DOI: 10.1007/s00227-017-3081-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Populations of bottlenose dolphin and harbour porpoise inhabit Cardigan Bay, which was designated a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), with bottlenose dolphin listed as a primary feature for its conservation status. Understanding the abundance, distribution and habitat use of species is fundamental for conservation and the implementation of management. Bottlenose dolphin and harbour porpoise usage of feeding sites within Cardigan Bay SAC was examined using passive acoustic monitoring. Acoustic detections recorded with calibrated T-PODs (acoustic data loggers) indicated harbour porpoise to be present year round and in greater relative abundance than bottlenose dolphin. Fine-scale temporal partitioning between the species occurred at three levels: (1) seasonal differences, consistent between years, with porpoise detections peaking in winter months and dolphin detections in summer months; (2) diel variation, consistent across sites, seasons and years, with porpoise detections highest at night and dolphin detections highest shortly after sunrise; and (3) tidal variation was observed with peak dolphin detections occurring during ebb at the middle of the tidal cycle and before low tide, whereas harbour porpoise detections were highest at slack water, during and after high water with a secondary peak recorded during and after low water. General Additive Models (GAMs) were applied to better understand the effects of each covariate. The reported abundance and distribution of the two species, along with the temporal variation observed, have implications for the design and management of protected areas. Currently, in the UK, no SACs have been formally designated for harbour porpoise while three exist for bottlenose dolphins. Here, we demonstrate a need for increased protection and species-specific mitigation measures for harbour porpoise.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna K. Nuuttila
- SEACAMS, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP UK
- Sea Watch Foundation, Paragon House, New Quay, Ceredigion, SA45 9NR UK
| | | | - Sarah Baulch
- University of York, York, YO10 5DD UK
- Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), 62-63 Upper Street, N1 0NY London, UK
| | - Malene Simon
- Greenland Climate Research Center, Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, P.O. Box 570, Kivioq 2, 3900 Nuuk, Greenland
| | - Peter G. H. Evans
- Sea Watch Foundation, Ewyn y Don, Bull Bay, Amlwch, Isle of Anglesey, LL68 9SD UK
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Small RJ, Brost B, Hooten M, Castellote M, Mondragon J. Potential for spatial displacement of Cook Inlet beluga whales by anthropogenic noise in critical habitat. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2017. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
|
33
|
Garrett JK, Blondel P, Godley BJ, Pikesley SK, Witt MJ, Johanning L. Long-term underwater sound measurements in the shipping noise indicator bands 63Hz and 125Hz from the port of Falmouth Bay, UK. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2016; 110:438-448. [PMID: 27393210 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic low-frequency anthropogenic sound, such as shipping noise, may be negatively affecting marine life. The EU's Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) includes a specific indicator focused on this noise. This indicator is the yearly average sound level in third-octave bands with centre frequencies at 63Hz and 125Hz. These levels are described for Falmouth Bay, UK, an active port at the entrance to the English Channel. Underwater sound was recorded for 30min h(-1) over the period June 2012 to November 2013 for a total of 435days. Mean third-octave levels were louder in the 125-Hz band (annual mean level of 96.0dB re 1μPa) than in the 63-Hz band (92.6dB re 1 μPa). These levels and variations are assessed as a function of seasons, shipping activity and wave height, providing comparison points for future monitoring activities, including the MSFD and emerging international regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J K Garrett
- College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK.
| | - Ph Blondel
- Department of Physics, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, UK.
| | - B J Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK; Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK.
| | - S K Pikesley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK.
| | - M J Witt
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK.
| | - L Johanning
- College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, TR10 9FE, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Seasonal habitat‐based density models for a marine top predator, the harbor porpoise, in a dynamic environment. Ecosphere 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.1367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
|
35
|
Wisniewska D, Johnson M, Teilmann J, Rojano-Doñate L, Shearer J, Sveegaard S, Miller L, Siebert U, Madsen P. Ultra-High Foraging Rates of Harbor Porpoises Make Them Vulnerable to Anthropogenic Disturbance. Curr Biol 2016; 26:1441-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2016.03.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
|
36
|
Sensor Fusion and Autonomy as a Powerful Combination for Biological Assessment in the Marine Environment. ROBOTICS 2016. [DOI: 10.3390/robotics5010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
|