Underwater Noise Emissions:
According to a News Study, “Measuring Underwater Noise Levels Radiated by Ships in Indian Waters”, the rising Underwater Noise Emissions (UNE) from ships in the Indian waters are posing a threat to the Marine Ecosystem.
- The measurement of the ambient noise levels was carried out by deploying a hydrophone autonomous system around 30 nautical miles from the Goa coastline.
Highlights of the Study:
- The sound pressure levels of UNE in the Indian waters are 102-115 decibels, relative to one microPascal (dB re 1µ Pa).
- Scientists have agreed to use 1µPa as the reference pressure for underwater sound.
- The East Coast level is slightly higher than that of the West.
- There is an increase by a significant value of about 20 dB re 1µPa.
- Continuous shipping movement is identified to be a major contributor to the increase in the global ocean noise level.
- UNE is posing a threat to the life of mammals like Bottlenose Dolphin, Manatees, Pilot Whale, Seal, and Sperm Whale.
- The main form of energy for multiple behavioural activities of marine mammals, which include mating, communal interaction, feeding, cluster cohesion and foraging, is based on sound.
