Acoustic characterization of seahorse tank environments in public aquaria: A citizen science project

作者：Anderson Paul A^*

来源：Aquacultural Engineering, 2013, 54: 72-77.

DOI：10.1016/j.aquaeng.2012.11.004

• Acoustics
• Ambient noise
• Aquarium
• Hippocampus
• Seahorse
• Citizen science

Professional aquarists from nine U.S. public aquaria participated in a citizen science project to characterize ambient noise in marine ornamental aquaria containing seahorses (Hippocampus spp.). Participants collected data on tank design specifications and acoustic recordings from the middle of the water column of each tank surveyed. Ambient noise in aquaria was very variable, ranging in total RMS power from 116.3 to 142.9 dB SPL (re: 1 mu Pa), with a mean total RMS power of 126.1 +/- 0.8 dB. Among tank design specifications: wall material, bottom habitat type, and their interaction had significant effects on total RMS power. Glass tanks were significantly louder than acrylic and concrete tanks, but not fiberglass tanks. Bare bottom tanks were significantly louder than tanks with a plenum or gravel bottom. In the context of literature documenting effects of noise on hearing, acoustic communication, and stress, the exposure to loud ambient noise may be deleterious to aquarium fishes in several ways; thus, system soundproofing techniques are offered. This project demonstrated the utility of citizen science to gather a data set across a large geographic area on a feasible budget, while providing opportunities for professional aquarists to understand the acoustic environment of their systems and appreciate the utility of research to improve animal management.

• 出版日期2013-5